Neurofeedback for Epilepsy
A Revolutionary Alternative Treatment for Seizure Control
Neurofeedback therapy for epilepsy has a fascinating origin story that began with an accidental discovery over 50 years ago. While neurofeedback is still developing compared to traditional therapeutic interventions, its proven effectiveness for seizure control has established it as a leading alternative treatment option for those seeking non-pharmaceutical approaches.
The History of Neurofeedback: From Cats to Life-Changing Treatment
The breakthrough began in the 1960s and 1970s when Dr. Barry Sterman, a pioneering neuroscientist at UCLA, conducted groundbreaking research using cats to study brainwave training. Dr. Sterman was investigating whether cats could be trained through operant conditioning, a reward-based learning process, to produce more of a particular brainwave frequency called the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR). He discovered that increases in SMR were linked to enhanced sleep spindles, which improved cognitive efficiency.
The NASA Discovery That Changed Everything
Later, Dr. Sterman was asked to conduct an unrelated study for NASA investigating why astronauts experienced hallucinations when exposed to certain rocket fuel chemicals. He used both his SMR-trained cats and untrained cats in this experiment. When exposed to the rocket fuel, most cats developed seizures, except for the ones that had previously undergone SMR training. These cats remained completely seizure-free, leading Dr. Sterman to realize that SMR training had created a protective mechanism against seizures.
Intrigued by this discovery, Dr. Sterman wanted to test whether the same effect would occur in humans. A colleague who had been diagnosed with epilepsy volunteered for the study. Using SMR training neurofeedback for the first time in human history, Dr. Sterman's colleague not only stopped having seizures but also experienced additional cognitive benefits, including improved clarity, focus, sleep, and memory.
As word spread, other scientists began taking notice and eventually applied neurofeedback to treat conditions like ADHD/ADD, noting significant improvements in symptoms.
Understanding SMR and Its Powerful Benefits
Today, SMR (sensorimotor rhythm) training remains one of the most well-researched applications of neurofeedback, particularly for increasing seizure thresholds in individuals with epilepsy.
SMR is a brainwave frequency that oscillates between 12-15 Hz and plays a crucial role in arousal, movement, sensory processing, and attention. When individuals are trained to produce more of these oscillations through neurofeedback, research has shown improvements in sleep quality, mental clarity, inflammation reduction, focus, and mood.
SMR is so powerful and precise that it's the very brain frequency used to control brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) such as prosthetics, wheelchairs, and computer cursors. This demonstrates just how fundamental SMR is to motor control and cognitive function.
As Dr. Sterman first discovered, SMR training is particularly effective at reducing seizure activity because it helps decrease motor excitation in the brain. This makes SMR neurofeedback a highly effective treatment for epilepsy, as it increases the brain's seizure threshold and leads to reduced seizure frequency and intensity.
What the Research Says About Neurofeedback for Seizures
For individuals seeking alternatives to anticonvulsant medications, SMR training offers compelling evidence of effectiveness. In 2000, Dr. Sterman published a comprehensive meta-analysis examining 243 patients across 24 studies. The results were remarkable: 82% of participants experienced a reduction in seizures of 50% or greater after receiving SMR neurofeedback training.
These findings demonstrate that neurofeedback represents a dependable treatment option for individuals with epilepsy who are interested in complementary approaches to traditional anticonvulsant medications.
Our Approach at North Austin Neurofeedback
At North Austin Neurofeedback, we utilize a protocol called "SMR up-training at Cz," which is the most clinically supported neurofeedback protocol available. This is typically where we begin with the majority of our clients for several important reasons.
The Cz electrode placement targets the sensorimotor cortex, and SMR training at this location can increase sleep spindles, which are a key component of restorative sleep. Since sleep quality often serves as a foundation for psychological and neurological health, improving sleep patterns frequently addresses many presenting symptoms that clients experience.
By starting with SMR training at Cz, we can effectively evaluate how each client responds to neurofeedback and determine the most appropriate next steps in their treatment plan. This evidence-based approach ensures that our clients receive the most effective and personalized care possible.
We also use a diagnostic imaging tool called a QEEG Brain Scan to provide insights for our providers to determine the most effective protocols for your specific symptoms and EEG patterns, creating a personalized intervention tailored to your current brain health.
The Future of Neurofeedback for Epilepsy
As research continues to grow in the field of neurofeedback, especially for epilepsy and seizure disorders, we're optimistic about the future of brain-based interventions. This is an exciting time in neuroscience, and we're proud to offer cutting-edge, evidence-informed care at North Austin Neurofeedback.
If you or a loved one is interested in experiencing the benefits neurofeedback can offer in the treatment of epilepsy or seizure disorders, or wants to use our QEEG to understand more about how your brain is functioning, please set up a consultation with our clinical director or give us a call at our clinic, 512-293-9209. We look forward to serving you.
References:
Livint Popa, L., Dragos, H., Pantelemon, C., Verisezan Rosu, O., & Strilciuc, S. (2020). The Role of Quantitative EEG in the Diagnosis of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Journal of medicine and life, 13(1), 8–15. https://doi.org/10.25122/jml-2019-0085)
Sterman MB. Basic Concepts and Clinical Findings in the Treatment of Seizure Disorders with EEG Operant Conditioning. Clinical Electroencephalography. 2000;31(1):45-55. doi:10.1177/155005940003100111
