Exploring Microcurrent Neurofeedback: A Path to Healing
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Chapter 1: Understanding Microcurrent Neurofeedback
Have you come across the term Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN)? If not, allow me to introduce you to this innovative approach that could greatly benefit you or someone close to you, just as it has helped our son with autism.
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a technique that offers insights into certain bodily functions, such as breathing, temperature, and pulse, focusing specifically on brain wave activity. The different types of brain waves include:
- Alpha: Linked to relaxation, concentration, and focus
- Beta: Associated with attention and alertness
- Delta: Present during deep sleep
- Theta: Related to creativity and productivity
- Gamma: Connected with learning and memory
Individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or PTSD often exhibit imbalances in their brain waves, resulting in issues with attention, mood, sleep, memory, and cognitive function. This highlights the importance of neurofeedback.
Various neurofeedback techniques exist, with the simplest and most well-known being traditional methods. Professional devices can assist in achieving a meditative state comparable to hours of meditation. Additionally, several at-home applications and devices, such as binaural beats, Muse, and Braintap, offer different forms of neurofeedback in smaller doses.
What is Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN)?
Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN) is a specialized type of neurofeedback that employs low-intensity, pulse-based transcranial electrical stimulation (LIP-tES). This method involves measuring brain waves and responding with pulsed energy delivered through electrodes.
The IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback (I-MCN) device was the one we utilized for our son. I-MCN stimulates the cerebral cortex with tiny pulses of energy, using less than 3 trillionths of a watt. During a session, five electrodes are strategically placed, with four delivering transcranial stimulation and one serving as a ground lead on the neck. The placement of these electrodes can be adjusted according to the session’s goals.
Why Might Someone Seek I-MCN Therapy?
What traditional neurofeedback achieves in six months, I-MCN can often accomplish in a much shorter timeframe. It facilitates lasting changes in the brain by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which is responsible for healing and restoration.
Many individuals could greatly benefit from activating the PNS, as it counteracts the "fight or flight" response triggered by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). When the SNS is stuck in overdrive due to stress or illness, it can lead to headaches, increased heart rate, hormone imbalances, and gastrointestinal issues. I-MCN aids the brain in switching from the SNS to the PNS by forming new neural pathways.
As one practitioner described, "IASIS does not train the brain like traditional neurofeedback but rather 'disentrains' it, allowing the brain to reorganize and free itself from rigid patterns—much like rebooting a frozen computer."
Chapter 2: The I-MCN Therapy Experience
The first video titled Benefits of Microcurrent Neurofeedback - IASIS - YouTube showcases the positive outcomes associated with this innovative therapy, including improvement in anxiety and cognitive functions.
The second video titled IASIS Tech: General Information About Micro Current Neurofeedback - YouTube provides an overview of the technology behind I-MCN and its applications in various health scenarios.
During an I-MCN session, patients relax in a chair while the practitioner attaches small electrodes to the scalp. Sessions usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, during which low-intensity pulses (imperceptible to the patient) are sent to the brain while monitoring brain waves on a screen.
Following the treatment, patients commonly report:
- Enhanced mental clarity, focus, and memory
- Decreased anxiety, stress, and irritability
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased motivation and creativity
- Alleviation of brain fog and cognitive issues
- Better motor skills and energy levels
- Positive shifts in mood
Conditions potentially mitigated by I-MCN include migraines, insomnia, chronic illnesses, ADHD, PTSD, and more. Additionally, I-MCN aids in detoxifying the brain and clearing waste from the central nervous system.
Our Personal Journey with I-MCN
Initially, we sought MCN for our son due to persistent incontinence, which we suspected was linked to inflammation. After some research and a recommendation from a practitioner, we decided to try I-MCN. Our son began with two sessions weekly, tapering down to weekly and monthly visits, totaling 30 sessions over 11 months.
The practitioners were exceptional, initially employing I-MCN to assist clients with depression and anxiety. Their practice grew, and they began helping a broader range of issues, including our son’s unique needs. They were incredibly compassionate, often bringing items for him to fidget with during sessions.
Benefits Observed with Our Son
From the first session, we noticed activation of our son's PNS, which led to immediate gastrointestinal stimulation. He became remarkably relaxed during treatments and soon experienced significant improvements, including:
- A notable increase in receptive language skills
- Better sleep and reduced incontinence episodes
- Acquisition of new skills
Anecdotal Success Stories
Through interactions with other families during sessions, we learned of various successes:
- A woman reported relief from anxiety and brain fog following COVID-19 after just one I-MCN session.
- Another shared how she finally achieved restful sleep after years of insomnia.
- A mother noted her autistic son’s improvements after completing 40 sessions, which included better sleep and behavior.
The Cost of Treatment and Lasting Impact
Most providers charge around $150 per session, with discounts available for package purchases. Our provider charged $100 per session, offering packages that reduced the cost to $75. Many individuals may require only a few sessions, while others might need up to 20 for optimal results. However, the benefits often endure long after treatment concludes.
It has been two years since our son's last session, and he has maintained his improvements, showcasing lasting effects on his language skills and overall well-being.
Final Thoughts on I-MCN
The IASIS MCN device represents a groundbreaking approach to healing the brain and nervous system, addressing various health issues effectively. Our experience has been profoundly positive, and we are grateful for the benefits it has brought to our son.
If you or someone you know could benefit from this versatile resource, I encourage you to explore it further without hesitation.
"He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake."