Neurofeedback reduces pain, increases quality of life for cancer patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced neuropathy

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-03/uotm-nrp031116.php

Public Release: 11-Mar-2016
Neurofeedback reduces pain, increases quality of life for cancer patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

A new study from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center evaluating the use of neurofeedback found a decrease in the experience of chronic pain and increase quality of life in patients with neuropathic pain.

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Study lead investigator Sarah Prinsloo, Ph.D., assistant professor Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine at MD Anderson, identified the location of brain activity that contributes to the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain, which allowed patients to modify their own brain activity through electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback. EEG tracks and records brain wave patterns by attaching small metal discs with thin wires on the scalp, and then sending signals to a computer to record the results.

"Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is very common in cancer patients and there is currently only one medication approved to treat it. I'm encouraged to see the significant improvements in patient's quality of life after treatment. This treatment is customized to the individual, and is relatively inexpensive, non-invasive and non-addictive." Prinsloo said.

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