Neurofeedback Side Effects – Risks and Precautions
Neurofeedback therapy has gained popularity as a safe and effective method to improve brain functionality. By consciously altering the electrical activity in the brain, individuals can target specific regions and correct suboptimal brain wave production. However, like any intervention, neurofeedback is not without its potential side effects.
Possible Neurofeedback Side Effects
While neurofeedback is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects. It is important to note that these side effects are usually transitory and not considered severe. Here are some of the possible side effects:
- Anxiety: Neurofeedback sessions may induce anxiety, which can be a result of the circumstantial setup or a placebo effect. However, improper training techniques or adverse reactions can exacerbate anxiety.
- Brain Fog: Although neurofeedback is known to reduce brain fog and improve concentration, some individuals may experience impaired concentration following their training. Continued training may help alleviate this side effect.
- Cognitive Impairment: Training the wrong frequencies or targeting suboptimal locations may lead to impaired cognitive function. In such cases, thinking may become slower, and overall performance may decrease.
- Chattering Teeth: A rare side effect reported by some individuals is chattering teeth, similar to shivering or trembling sensations. This side effect may occur after a session and could be related to electrical adjustments in the brain.
- Fatigue: Transient fatigue may occur when training faster frequencies in regions dominated by slower ones or vice versa. Proper training and persistence should normalize energy levels and reduce fatigue.
- Depersonalization: Altering the electrical activity in the brain may induce a sense of depersonalization or feeling “unlike” one’s normal self. While this side effect may be uncomfortable, it tends to subside with time.
- Depression: Increasing slower brain waves may result in temporary feelings of depression, while anxiety may be more common among those increasing faster waves. It is important to discuss any persistent depressive symptoms with a practitioner.
- Dizziness: Feeling dizzy after a neurofeedback session may be related to adjustments in electrical activity or overtraining certain frequencies. Dizziness may also be associated with anxiety or placebo-based side effects.
- Headaches: Training faster waves can sometimes lead to headaches, especially if the practitioner targets the wrong brain waves or regions. Proper training techniques should minimize the occurrence of headaches.
- Head Pressure: Some individuals may experience pressure on the head during or after neurofeedback sessions. This pressure may be localized or more widespread and may vary depending on the regions targeted.
- Internal Vibrations: Anecdotal reports suggest that some individuals may experience internal vibrations, similar to buzzing sensations. These vibrations may be related to physiological changes resulting from electrical alterations.
- Low Energy: Training specific brain waves associated with hyperactivity may temporarily reduce energy levels. This reduction occurs when comparing a hyperaroused brain to a calmer state. Proper training and adjustment can prevent persistent low energy.
- Muscle Tension: Improper training of certain frequencies, such as beta and gamma waves, may increase muscle tension. Proper neurofeedback training has the potential to reduce perceptions of muscle tension.
- Social Anxiety: In some cases, neurofeedback may increase anxiety in social situations. This side effect is more likely among individuals with a history of anxiety and should be discussed with the practitioner.
- Tiredness: Neurofeedback may feel like a mental workout, potentially leading to mental and physical tiredness. Overtraining and incorrect frequency selection can contribute to persistent tiredness.
- Trembling: Changes in electrical activity during neurofeedback can trigger physiological alterations, including sensations of shivering or trembling. Trembling may also be related to anxiety or temporary adverse reactions.
- Vocal Changes: Anecdotal reports suggest that neurofeedback may result in subjective perceptions of vocal changes. These changes could be related to anxiety, trembling, or physiological alterations.
- Worsening of Symptoms: While the goal of neurofeedback is to improve brain functioning, it is possible for symptoms to worsen temporarily. Suboptimal or improper training may exacerbate preexisting conditions.
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience side effects from neurofeedback. Many individuals report significant benefits without any adverse reactions. The occurrence and severity of side effects may vary depending on individual factors and the quality of training received.
Reducing and Coping with Neurofeedback Side Effects
To minimize the likelihood of experiencing side effects during neurofeedback therapy, consider the following suggestions:
Get a QEEG “Brain Map”
Prior to starting neurofeedback training, undergo a comprehensive QEEG assessment. This provides the practitioner with essential information about your brain’s electrical activity and allows for targeted training. Avoid “guessing” what needs to be corrected and rely on accurate diagnostic information.
Work with an Experienced Practitioner
Choose a neurofeedback practitioner with extensive experience and a good track record. An experienced professional will have up-to-date knowledge, use modern equipment, and conduct a QEEG assessment before training. Don’t compromise on quality for the sake of cost.
Communicate with the Practitioner
Maintain open communication with your practitioner throughout the training process. Keep a journal to track your progress and note any significant side effects. Discuss these side effects with your practitioner, who should actively listen and address your concerns.
Adjust Training Intensity
If you experience side effects, consider reducing the intensity of your neurofeedback training. Overtraining can increase the risk of adverse reactions. Opt for minimal effective doses and work with your practitioner to find the optimal training schedule.
Fuel Your Brain
Support your brain’s health by maintaining a nutritious diet. Include foods rich in vegetables, healthy fats, protein, fruit, and whole grains. A well-nourished brain is better equipped to handle the demands of neurofeedback training and reduce the risk of fatigue and overtraining-related side effects.
Persist with Training
Minor side effects may be transient and fade over time with continued training. If your practitioner assures you that the side effects are likely to subside, consider persisting with the training. However, if the side effects are severe or persist despite adjustments, consult with your practitioner about alternative approaches.
Consider Discontinuing
If you believe your practitioner is inexperienced or the side effects outweigh the potential benefits, it may be wise to discontinue neurofeedback therapy. Your well-being should always be the priority, and seeking alternative treatments or practitioners may be necessary.
