ADD/ADHD AND THE MIRACULOUS HUMAN BRAIN The human brain is an amazingly complex electro-chemical learning machine. Functioning well, it enables us to live richly, expressing our fullest capacities in school, work, and relationships. The well- functioning brain has been compared to a symphony.....balanced, harmonious, intentional, expressive, energetic. And compared to a sports team when each player is in their “zone”…coordinated, precise, powerful, victorious. That “zone” of efficient, effective mental functioning is what we all desire. But like any machine, orchestra or team, the brain sometimes needs correction. Medications can improve the functioning of the brain and are at times an appropriate intervention. However, side effects can be unpleasant and even dangerous and many people wish to minimize their dependency upon medications. They desire a safer, long lasting solution to their brain’s challenges. Wise health consumers demand that these solutions be scientifically researched and medically approved. Recent advancements in brain research have created the safe, long term, scientifically validated alternative which many desire. Just as musicians hone their skills through practice and athletes build strength through physical conditioning, scientific research clearly demonstrates it is possible to improve brain function through individualized practice and exercise. YOU CAN STRENGTHEN YOUR BRAIN THROUGH EXERCISE Yes, Exercise! Brain cells, called neurons, are connected throughout the outer brain (cortex) and inner brain (unconscious and autonomic functioning) through loops of wire-like axons carrying electrical impulses. Electrical impulses stimulate the release of chemical neurotransmitters which initiate continued electrical firings. So, as you improve the electrical conductivity of the axonal “wiring”, mental functioning can be normalized....often reducing or eliminating dependence upon chemical medications. This re-wiring occurs through the educational process of computer-assisted operant conditioning (like playing computer games with the brain as the controller) known as Neurofeedback. THE IMPORTANT MEDICAL TEST YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT The FDA has approved a medical test which can be administered to determine the exact condition of the brain’s electrical wiring. Insurance Codes for this test have been assigned, designating it as a medically researched and validated procedure, and many insurance companies may cover the expense of the test called Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) when it is prescribed by a physician. QEEG testing is an important tool for diagnosis of brain function. QEEG BRAINMAPS REVEAL BRAIN FUNCTION ACCURATELY The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved QEEG which compares an individual’s electrical brain function with a database of normals selected by age, gender and handedness. The amount of variation in electrical power from the normal can be precisely measured for each of 19 sites on the brain, as well as for the hundreds of connections (coherences) between each of these 19 sites. These results are displayed as color-coded Brainmaps, making them easier to read and interpret. Conditions such as Attention Deficit Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety, Bi-polar Disorder, Brain Injury, Seizures, etc. have a recognizable “signature” in the Brainmaps. Thus, the QEEG is highly useful in assuring that an accurate diagnosis is made. In situations where medications are appropriate, the QEEG can accurately predict which medication will be the most effective so clients can get safe, quick relief. QEEG TESTING FOR ADD/ADHD QEEG testing is considered the “gold standard” for accurate diagnosis of ADD/ADHD; unfortunately, this precision testing is often neglected and the diagnosis is made on behavioral complaints from parents and teachers. Too often, the condition is misdiagnosed and the real cause of the brain dysfunction goes untreated. Many times, Attentional Disorders can be caused by small seizures (epileptiform activity) which disrupt cortical processing, often with no physical symptoms being observed. In these cases, stimulant medications such as Ritalin may actually make the condition worse by lowering the seizure threshold. Too often, when Ritalin alone produces undesirable side-effects such as insomnia or loss of appetite, other medications are added to the mix. None of these medications are addressing the underlying seizure-like activity of the brain. Commonly, other brain disorders co-exist with Attention Deficit Disorder and it is important to know exactly what other conditions are impacting the client or patient. QEEG provides precise information for accurate diagnosis of all conditions which are present. THE HEART/BRAIN CONNECTION Research now tells us that the Brain is under the constant influence of the Autonomic Nervous System and that much of this regulation is directed from the electrical signals generated from the Heart via the vagal nerve. Heart Rate Varibility Analysis (HRV) has long been recognized as an accurate predictor of general cardiac health; how neuroscience recognizes that it is an important predictor of emotional balance (stress) and cortical functioning as well. So, at Sound Health Designs, we include Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Analysis with QEEG testing to give a more comprehensive assessment of the Central Nervous System (including brain). As we train the body to improve Heartrate Variability and therefore reduce stress, mental functioning/learning can also improve. Resources for ADD/ADHD ADD/ADHD Studies and Research Sample Letter to Schools to Adopt Neurotherapy as Special Education (reprinted with permission from Dr. Kirtley Thornton). This entire website is an excellent resource on ADD, QEEG Brainmapping, Neurotherapy and other recommended reference links. Thank you, Dr. Thornton. |
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