Neurotherapy
The term neurotherapy covers several brain stimulation techniques available at
York Mind-body Health, which can be useful adjuncts to neurofeedback and
biofeedback.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a new and exciting therapy for
which preliminary research suggests considerable promise. The technology is
simple: the polarising effect of applying voltage from a small battery to the
scalp stimulates changes in brain function. The polarity can be switched to
either activate or inhibit the brain. Choice of polarity and scalp location is
guided by EIS results (see right). The small current (around 1 milliamp) can be
felt as a light tingling.
Applications of Transcranial DC Stimulation
Research suggests tDCS can help:
- depression, anxiety and other emotional disorders
- cognitive performance (learning, memory) suggesting applicability to
developmental disorders including ADD / ADHD
- stroke
- migraine
Neurotherapy treatments are guided by assessment. York Mind-Body Health employs Electro Interstitial
Scanning (EIS) - powerful and innovative technology based on bio-impedance. Capable of rapidly and
non-invasively estimating physiological functioning in each of the body's major organ systems, EIS
can track the progress of therapy as well as guiding choices.
Cranial Electro Stimulation
Cranial Electro Stimulation (CES) - also known as cranial electrotherapy -
stimulates the brain and nervous system with repeating electrical impulses
applied at the earlobes.
Developed by soviet scientists in the late 1940's, Cranial Electro Stimulation
may benefit:
- insomnia
- chronic pain
- anxiety and depression
- addiction
Though little independent research has been carried out in the west, reports
suggest CES increases serotonin, endorphins and other brain chemicals. My
experience of testing CES using the EIS system (see right) confirms it does
effect changes in at least some brains.
Audio Visual Stimulation
Audio Visual Stimulation (AVS) uses pulsed light and sound to effect changes in
brain function. Also known as Audio Visual Entrainment, this technology elicits
the brain's natural frequency-following response meaning that brainwaves (EEG)
follows (entrains to) the rhythm of the stimulation.
Evidence indicates AVS produces changes in neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin,
endorphins) and also in cerebral blood flow (often found to be altered in brain
disorders). Applications include:
- attention (ADD, ADHD)
- learning and cognitive performance
- anxiety and depression.