BRAIN MAPPING, STRESS AND PAIN

NeuroHealth Associates utilize advanced technology, called quantitative EEG-BEAM Brain Mapping, also referred to as brain mapping. This technology allows us to quantify the power, amount, distribution and ratio of various brain waves and their location, to understand the contribution of aberrant brain wave activity to a patient's symptoms. This guides us in directing in-office frequency specific EEG neurofeedback, peripheral biofeedback, and consultation for medication prescription. It also permits for a pre and post treatment brain map comparison, to ascertain the degree of improvement.

Unlike regular EEG used in neurology to diagnose seizure disorder and other neurological conditions, QEEG is not used to diagnose specific neuropsychological conditions. For instance, a similar QEEG pattern can be seen in multiple diagnostic categories. Rather, it is most helpful in understanding how the brain is functioning electrically and how this differs from what would be seen in asymptomatic people with optimal brain functioning.

Below is an example of a brain map result with activation patterns indicated by various colors.

QEEG brain mapping - how is it performed?

Having the qEEG cap put on the head is similar to having a swim cap on. Several measurements are taken of the head and a cap is fit snugly to the head just like a swim cap. Special gel is squirted into sensors in the cap and the patient is asked to sit quietly first with eyes closed and then with eyes open. Your doctor will then do a comprehensive digital and statistical analysis of the brain waves patterns and show you the color coded brain map upon follow up visit.

In order to for your doctor to collect "clean data", it is important that the patient:

1. Refrain from having caffeinated beverages or stimulant medications 3 hours prior to evaluation
2. Wear a minimal amount of hair spray and hair gel.

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