Neurotopia Neurofeedback and Migraines

Migraines & Chronic Pain

"Neurofeedback reduces the stress response and brings stability and calmness to the nervous system," said Dr. David Biondi, a neurologist and consultant in headache management at Massachusetts General Hospital. "I think it's very effective for migraines. Studies have shown that neurofeedback can be just as effective as some of the preventive medications we use."

Does it Work?

How well does it work? According to Dr. Barry Schwartz, director of the Headache Center in New Orleans, about 85 percent to 90 percent of patients with chronic headaches respond positively to biofeedback.

"Neurofeedback also serves as an excellent bridge in assisting patients to wean off medications," he said.

It's a method that worked for migraine patient Elizabeth Poe of New Orleans. She said she had suffered from about two migraines a week for the last 30 years. Her remedy used to be 12 tablets of ibuprofen a day, with the occasional prescription painkiller.

"After I started neurofeedback, almost immediately I stopped having the headaches. Now I haven't had a headache in three years," she said. "Neurofeedback got me off all the pills I was taking and taught me techniques that can help me relax and avoid headaches. I feel 1,000 percent better."