Migraine is a term used to describe an extremely severe headache which is usually accompanied by sensory changes, nausea and sometimes vomiting. A migraine can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days, if left untreated. The severity of the throbbing or pulsating head pain and other symptoms can vary considerably. The most common sensory symptom is sensitivity to light which usually develops in the second stage of a Migraine, called the Aura. In addition to bright spots, flashes, rings and other shapes affecting vision, some sufferers also get pins and needles, sound and smell sensitivity in the Aura and the Attack itself (stage 3). The first and fourth stages, named Prodrome and Post-drome respectively, usually feature more subtle changes, but can still impact daily function.

There are many factors that affect how a Migraine develops, making it a very complex condition to address. Common causes include food and alcohol, stress and exercise and sensory triggers such as changes in light. Hormonal and neurochemical imbalances, medications and poor sleep quality can also lead to an attack. Chronic Migraine sufferers struggle to live a normal life mainly because the disorder is so unpredictable. It is particularly difficult to work and hold down a job without knowing when the next debilitating episode will occur. Consequently, anxiety and depressive symptoms are also frequently present in Migraine patients, which further complicates assessment and treatment.

A range of prescription medications and different forms of pain and nausea relief are widely used by Migraine sufferers. Non-pharmacological treatments such as Acupuncture, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Yoga, meditation, exercise and healthy diet are choices shown to help with onset and management of the condition. However, many long-term patients are looking for alternatives as they do not want to have episodes, be in pain and take medication forever. For those not opting for Physical, Psychological or Pharmacological interventions, medication-free Neurofeedback (NF) is a perfect solution.

Neurofeedback studies related to Migraine have shown promising results. In 2011, Jonathan Walker saw 54% of his 46 Migraine patients drastically improve and most others reduce frequency of headaches after Neurofeedback treatment. A few years later in 2014, Farahani and colleagues reported similar reductions in frequency and severity of headaches from Neurofeedback and TENS sessions. Two later studies found that Migraines not only decreased in patients, but improvements were maintained for many months after the programs were completed (Stokes & Lappin, 2010; Nestoriuc & Martin, 2007).

How QEEG and Neurofeedback can help

As there is no definitive pattern seen in Migraine sufferers, QEEG and Neurofeedback are particularly well suited for treatment. Elevated slow and fast wave power is often displayed, but every Migraine patient can present quite differently. Deviant electrical activity unique to the patient is identified in the QEEG results and can then be targeted in the personalized treatment protocol. QEEG Metrics in intensity/power, frequency/speed and coherence are measured in brain regions and compared to population databases. Through repetition and reward, the swLORETA training software discourages the atypical response, and promotes the preferred pattern. Rewiring usually occurs after a number of sessions and enables the healthier pattern to gradually overpower the dysfunctional pattern. An improved QEEG map is greener and reflects a more balanced and flexible brain. When normalization of maps takes place, it is not unusual for overall health to stabilize. For example, when Migraines significantly reduce in intensity or disappear altogether, other conditions such as anxiety and depression can also dissipate.