BRAIN MAPPING
What is qEEG?
qEEG stands for Quantitative Electroencephalography. Simply put, qEEG uses electrodes on the scalp to detect electrical signals from the brain. These signals are then analyzed to create a 3D model of the brain's activity
QEEG is completely noninvasive. The device simply picks up electrical signals from the skin. There is no radiation involved. This makes it even more remarkable that QEEG is able to precisely detect abnormalities in brain function, accurate to within less than a centimeter.
What can we see on QEEG?
Where traditional imaging such as MRI or CT can show us the structure of the brain, QEEG allows us to see its function in real time. Most of the developmental disorders we work with are not disorders of structure; that is, a static image of the brain appears relatively normal. It is the activity of the brain that is dysregulated, and this is what QEEG allows us to visualize.
There are two primary signs of dysregulation that we often see in children:
1. Imbalance in brain waves
2. Abnormal brain connectivity
Brain Waves
The brain produces 5 types of brain waves, from very slow delta waves in deep sleep, to fast gamma waves with intense concentration. All brain waves are equally important, and usually they each exist in a state of balance.
In conditions such as ADHD, TBI, and anxiety this balance is lost. Certain areas of the brain produce too much, or not enough, of specific brainwaves. Another way to think of this is different parts of the brain being either overactive, or underactive.
A common pattern in our ADHD example is a state of elevated theta waves, along with deficient beta waves [A]. However, each brain is different, and it's important to identify a child's specific pattern of dysregulation.
Functional Connectivity
Finally, QEEG allows us to assess the brain's connectivity. This means we can not only see whether each individual region is over or underactive, but how well distant brain areas are communicating with each other. Atypical connectivity is seen in developmental disorders such as dyslexia, and in particular, autism [3].
Atypical patterns of connectivity are thought to be one source of the marked imbalance in skills many with autism display. There may be an abundance of short-range connections, and a lack of long-range connections, leading to exceptional talent in certain areas while creating great difficulty in others. [4]
Abnormal connectivity may be seen within a single lobe of the brain, between distant regions, and even between the left and right hemispheres.
Laser THerapy
What is Laser Therapy?
BrainCamp programs use red and infrared
laser therapy to improve brain health and cognitive function.
It is a safe and non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments.
Laser therapy has been studied for a remarkable variety of
brain conditions, as well as simply boosting brain
function in healthy individuals.
How Does it Work?
Laser energy is absorbed by brain tissues, and triggers several physiological changes that support the brain [1].
Laser energy has a stimulating effect on the brain's mitochondria- the "powerhouse of the cell". Infrared wavelengths are strongly absorbed by mitochondrial enzymes, which increases the activity of the mitochondria. This causes brain cells to produce more ATP to use as energy, giving a boost to brain function, healing and growth [2].
But that's just the beginning. Laser has also been shown to increase cerebral blood flow [3], decrease neuroinflammation [4], and increase the brain's antioxidant defenses [5].
The end result of these effects? Laser increases the brain's functional connectivity [6]. This means the brain is forming new synapses (connections), communicating and coordinating more effectively.
Clinical Studies
A recent review of 9 different studies found that laser "showed efficacy in improving disruptive behavior, social communication, cognitive rigidity, sleep quality, and attention in Autism Spectrum Disorder" [7].
The same review found that laser is effective in "enhancing attention" in children diagnosed with ADHD. Even in non-ADHD individuals, another review found that laser "significantly improved the attention-related outcomes" and other cognitive skills [8].
A recent systematic review examined the effects of laser on patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Treatment with laser was found to significantly improve TBI patients' memory, executive function, processing speed, verbal fluency and attention [9].
Mood disorders also respond well to PBM. Another systematic review found that it is "effective in reducing depression symptoms" [10]. Studies have also shown significant improvement in symptoms of anxiety [11].
Travel Intensives Now Open!
Out-of-town families, we're so excited to announce our travel intensive programs, now booking for 2025!
BrainCamp intensives are designed to squeeze months of therapies into 1-2 weeks, followed by a tailored home care program.
Book a free video consultation with Dr. Chris to learn more!