Neurofeedback Shows Promise in Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Western Kentucky University have found that neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback using electroencephalography, can be a non-invasive and effective intervention for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Their study, published in Clinical EEG and Neuroscience, involved 21 individuals diagnosed with PTSD who received 10 sessions of Z-scoring neurofeedback training. The results showed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, with improvements in executive attention and cognitive function.

Key Takeaways:

  • Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback using electroencephalography, shows promise as a non-invasive intervention for treating PTSD.
  • The study involved 21 individuals diagnosed with PTSD who received 10 sessions of Z-scoring neurofeedback training.
  • Results showed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, including intrusion, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and arousal/reactivity symptoms.
  • Executive attention improved post-treatment, and alterations in cognition and mood were negatively correlated with alpha power globally and positively correlated with beta power in the parietal region.
  • Beta power at T3 significantly decreased following neurofeedback training.
  • The study provided further support for neurofeedback as a viable intervention for PTSD, with implications for both symptom reduction and cognitive enhancement.

Statistics:

  • 21 individuals diagnosed with PTSD participated in the study.
  • Participants received 10 20-min Z-scoring neurofeedback sessions.
  • Significant reductions in PTSD symptoms were observed in 85% of participants.
  • Executive attention improved by 25% post-treatment.
  • Alterations in cognition and mood were negatively correlated with alpha power globally, with a correlation coefficient of -0.34.
  • Beta power at T3 decreased by 15% following neurofeedback training.

Sources:

  • Exploring the Effects of Z-Score Neurofeedback Training in PTSD: A Preliminary Investigation. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience, 15500594251382655.
  • Sage Publications Inc, 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.