biofeedback treatment for ADHD

[cheetah]

I'm new to the sight and I was just wondering if anyone has any experience with Neurotherapy as an alternative or in conjunction with stimulants.

[Dad2Brooke]

I'm not even sure what you just said.
I have no experience with it. What is it?

[Mishamom]

Our doc suggested that we look into biofeedback/neurotherapy when he diagnosed our 5 year old daughter in September. We found someone who does it local to where I lived and went to find out more about it.

I honestly don't know much about how successful it is because there is very little testing on it. Here is what I do know though.

It is a method of 'brain training' which involves placing electrodes on a childs scalp and earlobes (can be done with a modified cap as well). The child then watches a computer screen/monitor while a visual event takes place. Something similar to a rocket ship flying through space or an obstacle course for example. The child then leans to control and move the object/game mentally and without the use of their hands. What this means is that the electrodes pick up the brainwave activity of the child. When the child suceeds at modifying/calming their brainwaive activity to specific patters then they are able to control what happens on the screen.

The theory is to teach children to retrain their brainwave activity to a level that is optimal for self calming, focus and concentration. After learning the skills the child can then apply the learned exercises at home and school when they feel the need to. Hopefully this will offer them the ability to become medication free, self aware and in control of themselves.

Like I said, I don't know the success rate of this at all. But it does sound like something that is beyond the ability of a 5 year old to self apply even if she were to master the skills. It also is not normally covered by insurance. It can take 20-60 sessions to learn the skills. Each session costs between $50-100 on average and can be 1 to 3 times per week. This is an expensive alternative but tempting if it worked.

You can also purchase biofeedback systems for home which include the software, electrodes and such for anywhere from $800-$3,000.

We've decided that this is just not a good option at this time. We'll rethink it when she's older and make decisions based on her needs and medication success. She just started taking Straterra this past Saturday so we're waiting to see how it works out for her.

[Dad2Brooke]

Egad, the things they can do now a days. That almost sounds like the kids become psychic.

Good luck on the Strattera. Brooke just started it Friday, and she is doing well so far. Today was her first day of just Strattera at the full dose of 25 mgs.