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Updated: Jan 19, 2026
A Protocol for the Administration of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Training
Published on: August 24, 2017
Self-regulation of brain activity and its effect on cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis - First
Silvia Erika Kober1, Daniela Pinter2, Christian Enzinger3
1University of Graz, Institute of Psychology, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
Objective:
To investigate the effects of EEG-based neurofeedback training, in which one can learn to self-regulate one's own brain activity, on cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).
Methods:
Fourteen pwMS performed ten neurofeedback training sessions within 3-4 weeks at home using a tele-rehabilitation system. The aim of the neurofeedback training was to increase voluntarily the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR, 12-15 Hz) in the EEG over central brain areas by receiving visual real-time feedback thereof. Cognitive function was assessed before and after all neurofeedback training sessions using a comprehensive standardized neuropsychological test battery.
Results:
Half of the pwMS (N = 7) showed cognitive improvements in long-term memory and executive functions after neurofeedback training. These patients successfully learned to self-regulate their own brain activity by means of neurofeedback training. The other half of pwMS (N = 7) did neither show any cognitive changes when comparing the pre- and post-assessment nor were they able to modulate their own brain activity in the desired direction during neurofeedback training.
Conclusions:
Data from this interventional study provide first preliminary evidence that successful self-regulation of one's own brain activity may be associated with cognitive improvements in pwMS.
Significance:
These promising results should stimulate further studies. Neurofeedback might be a promising and alternative tool for future cognitive rehabilitation.
