Neurofeedback as a Treatment for ADHD

I promised you more posts about non-drug treatments for ADHD so here's the first of more posts to come on this subject. Neurofeedback...what is it?

A form of biofeedback training that uses the EEG (Electroencephalogram), also known as the "brain wave" as the signal used to control feedback. Sensors applied to the trainee's scalp record the brainwaves, which are converted into feedback signals by a human/machine interface using a computer and software. By using visual, sound, or tactile feedback to produce operant conditioning of the brain, it can be used to induce brain relaxation through increasing alpha waves. A variety of additional benefits, derived from the improved ability of the CNS (central nervous system) to relax, may also be obtained.
--aapb.com

According to MicroNutra Health, who uses the tag line "Alternative Medicine from RealDoctors," "...when a normal child reads or concentrates on any activity, they must increase the amount of beta waves, the fastest brain waves. When children with ADHD try to concentrate, they increase theta waves, which are actually the daydreaming waves. Therefore when ADHD children try to concentrate, they actually trigger daydreaming instead of concentration. Neurofeedback works to teach these children to adjust their brain wave patterns."

I found that to be quite interesting. Imagine the possibilities if this were actually the case and ADHD children could learn to "adjust their brain wave patterns." The site goes on to say that more research is necessary and that using neurofeedback to treat ADHD is also expensive. Is it possible that once more research is completed and this form of treatment is deemed appropriate, that insurance companies will begin covering it more and more? After all, if this treatment actually works, then the need for daily medication could possibly be eliminated. Imagine the savings the insurance companies would then see.

The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) also has an informative article on this subject. This article explains...

At one extreme, there are prominent researchers who argue that, although neurofeedback treatment is consistent with current theories about the biological underpinnings of ADHD, there is a lack of scientific data documenting the efficacy of this approach. On the other hand, some neurofeedback researchers and practitioners argue that published studies clearly establish the effectiveness of this treatment.

You can read the rest of the article, in it's entirety, on the ADDA website.


Another option that is similar to neurofeedback is called Play Attention. This is used at home, without medical supervision, through a computer and a specially equipped helmet. For a detailed description of exactly how this works please visit the Play Attention website.

If you would like to research this topic further, may I suggest the following links?

WebMD - ADHD and Neurofeedback

Neuro Development Center - Neurofeedback Research

USA Today - ADHD patients play video games as part of treatment

I even ran across a video on You Tube on this subject and thought I'd share it as well...