Role of Quantitative Electroencephalography, Neurotherapy, and Neuroplasticity in Recovery from Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders

Abstract

Introduction. Until recently, patients with brain injuries had poor prognosis for recovery, but new insights into neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation have significantly improved outcomes. Neurotherapy or neurofeedback is one of those promising techniques for neurorehabilitation. Methods. Neurofeedback or EEG biofeedback, as it is also called, uses operant conditioning to reinforce desirable self-regulated changes in EEG rhythms, changes that are believed to correspond to reorganization in neural networks, particularly in thalamocortical and corticothalamic circuits. Sensorimotor rhythm reinforcement has been effective in facilitating recovery in patients with traumatic brain injury, stroke, seizures, and certain sleep disorders. Results. We describe the case of a 19-year-old man with severe, partial secondarily generalized seizures that did not respond to extensive conventional treatments including all antiepilepsy drugs. Conclusion. He underwent two 3-week sessions of daily neurotherapy, which produced remarkable EEG and behavioral normalization.