What is the difference between neurofeedback and neurostimulation?

Neurofeedback is an approach that requires your brain to essentially “catch-on” to the frequencies that we are trying to up-train or down-train. It is a process that takes much longer than neurostimulation and is a less direct approach. That being said, some highly sensitive people do better with neurofeedback as the main approach. Sometimes neurofeedback and neurostimulation is combined for best results.

The benefits of neurostimulation is that it does not wait for the brain to figure things out. It is putting the frequency into the brain that we want it to be accustomed to. In that way, it is a much quicker and more effective approach. People usually see differences within 5 sessions (and some after the first). It ends up being more cost effective in the long run, although initially it is more.

Is it safe?

Yes! Based on a meta-analysis published in 2016 “to date, the use of conventional tDCS protocols in human trials (≤40 min, ≤4 milliamperes, ≤7.2 Coulombs) has not produced any reports of a Serious Adverse Effect or irreversible injury across over 33,200 sessions and 1000 subjects with repeated sessions. This includes a wide variety of subjects, including persons from potentially vulnerable populations.” The equipment used at Valley Neurotherapy has a maxim dose of 2.5 milliamperes (well below the maximum recommendation of 4 mA). More recent 2021 studies have also approved it for use in children and adolescents.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27372845/

Does it Hurt?

It shouldn’t. Sometimes when figuring out correct dosing it is a bit of trial and error but you should be feeling comfortable. Your technician will do everything they can to keep you at a dose that is tolerable for you.  It can be itchy or feel strange at first (like tapping on the head or a bit warm). You do get used to it quickly. It is important to let your technician know if you are experiencing any discomfort.

Are there any side effects?

Fatigue is the most commonly noted side effect, as we are making your brain work hard!

Does brain mapping or neurotherapy interfere with current medications?

No. We encourage you to continue taking any medications recommended by your physician. You may be asked to discontinue stimulants 72 hours before mapping, as it can interfere with what is really going on in the brain.  Neurotherapy actually increases the effectiveness of your medication. Over time, some people can reduce or even eliminate medications with the support of your doctor. However, this is not the case for all people, so it should not be an expectation.