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Brainwave Optimization A Viable PTSD Treatment

September 13, 2010 - Brainwave optimization is not a new process, researchers have been using it in this particular configuration for about 10 years. At its essence, brainwave optimization is a more sophisticated structure of biofeedback and is being used to treat veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Brainwave optimization treatment is performed by reading brain activity. Veterans will have sensors attached to different regions of their brains. Patients then rest in a zero-gravity chair in a dark room. Those sensors detect the brain's activity and send the information they gather back into the brain but do so using varying tones. Those tones are delivered through headphones the patient wears.

The process is creating homeostasis by self-regulating imbalances in the patient's brain. The more the process is used, the more accurate the treatment will become. As it stands, many veterans report feeling results after only a few treatments. Generally, treatments consist of either 2 sittings a day for 5 days in a row, or 1 sitting a day for 10 days in a row. Many veterans come to this program after finding that other PTSD treatment programs have not worked for them. One thing patients mention is the subconscious level on which brainwave optimization works as compared to other treatments.

Brainwave optimization is not the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) approach to treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The VA's approach is one of using drugs and talk therapy. Many veterans have problems talking about their trauma because they find it too difficult to re-live the trauma, which is what therapy normally involves. This causes issues as the VA's insurance does not cover these brainwave optimization treatments. There are programs in development that allow private donors to cover the costs of treatment, and there will undoubtedly be more in the future.

When a person's coping mechanism is no longer effective, steps must be taken to restore balance to the person's body. This method provides such an opportunity and at the same time allows the opportunity without being drugged.