Microcurrent Neurofeedback vs Traditional Neurofeedback in the Reduction of Post TBI Cognitive Symptoms

Post-concussion symptoms (PCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) can adversely impact quality of life due to headaches, sleep problems, behavioral issues, fatigue and irritability. The East Texas area has a large Veteran population and many combat veterans suffer from mTBI. This evidenced based practice project researched and analyzed data from two studies using alternative therapies in treatment of PCS from mTBI. IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN), a low impulse transcranial electrical stimulation (LIP-tES) with individualized protocols, was used to reduce PCS such as poor memory and poor concentration. A traditional neurofeedback therapy (NFT) study was also appraised for reduction of PCS in poor concentration and memory. Comparison of results revealed greater reduction of PCS associated with mTBI using IASIS MCN than with NFT. We agree with recommendations made by both studies that further research should be conducted as both studies had small population groups. The evidence reviewed gives a starting point to build a research design specifically geared toward meeting the needs of local area veterans. Collaboration between the area’s trained IASIS providers, the University of Texas at Tyler, and local veteran organizations could make it possible to provide combat veterans who suffer daily with symptoms associated with mTBI the opportunity to provide necessary data to establish evidence-based practice protocols, while providing themselves a better quality of life.