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3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
QEEG-guided neurofeedback for recurrent migraine headaches
1Neurotherapy Center of Dallas, 12870 Hillcrest, Suite 201, Dallas, Texas 75230, USA. admin@neurotherapydallas.com
Clinical EEG and Neuroscience
|February 12, 2011
Summary
Quantitative electroencephalogram (QEEG)-guided neurofeedback significantly reduced or eliminated recurrent migraine headaches in most patients. This brainwave training offers a promising alternative to traditional drug therapy for migraine management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Recurrent migraine headaches affect a significant portion of the population.
- Quantitative electroencephalogram (QEEG) has identified patterns associated with migraine, such as excess high-frequency beta activity.
- Traditional drug therapies have limitations and varying efficacy in migraine management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of QEEG-guided neurofeedback in reducing headache frequency in patients with recurrent migraines.
- To compare the efficacy of neurofeedback with continued drug therapy.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-one patients with recurrent migraines underwent QEEG assessment.
- Patients were divided into two groups: one receiving neurofeedback training and a control group continuing drug therapy.
- Neurofeedback protocols focused on reducing 21-30 Hz activity and increasing 10 Hz activity.
Main Results:
- The neurofeedback group showed significant improvement: 54% experienced complete migraine cessation, and 39% had >50% reduction in frequency.
- The control group on drug therapy showed minimal improvement, with 68% experiencing no change in headache frequency.
- QEEG-guided neurofeedback demonstrated a dramatic reduction in headache frequency compared to drug therapy.
Conclusions:
- QEEG-guided neurofeedback is a highly effective treatment for reducing or eliminating headache frequency in patients with recurrent migraines.
- Neurofeedback presents a compelling alternative or adjunct to pharmacological interventions for migraine.
- This study highlights the potential of targeted brainwave modulation for neurological conditions.

