QEEG Brain Mapping
Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) brain mapping, also known as brainwave mapping, is a technique used to analyze and map the electrical activity of the brain. It involves recording and analyzing the brain’s electrical signals, captured through electrodes placed on the scalp, and converting them into quantitative data for further analysis.
QEEG brain mapping can provide valuable information about brain function and is used in various applications, including: Assessing neurological conditions (ADHD, Autism, epilepsy). Identifying specific brain abnormalities associated with depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, Developing personalized neurofeedback training plans, targeting specific brain improvements.
Brain Activity and Brainwaves
Brain activity refers to the electrical and chemical processes that occur within the brain. It involves the communication between billions of neurons, or nerve cells, that work together to process information, generate thoughts and emotions, and control bodily functions. Brain activity is essential for all cognitive processes, such as perception, memory, attention, language, and decision-making.
Brainwaves are the electrical patterns generated by the synchronized activity of neurons in the brain. These electrical signals can be detected and measured using techniques like electroencephalography (EEG), which records the brain’s electrical activity through electrodes placed on the scalp.
In simpler terms, our brain is the body central control unit, the communications take place in our brain create electrical waves (brainwaves). Brainwaves reflect the mental and emotional status, being relaxed, anxious, focused, distracted and so on.
What is QEEG?
The electroencephalogram (EEG) is an examination that allows precise measurement of electrical brain activity (different from chemical activity measured with a blood test). It consists of observing the pattern of waves over time. It is a non-invasive and painless examination, using a cap with 19 electrodes positioned on the head.
The quantitative EEG (QEEG) provides precise and detailed information about the brain. It requires physical and mathematical analyses in order to calculate numerous parameters that can be quantified (brain waves, power, coherence, etc.).
These analyses give a graphic representation, brain map, of the cerebral electrical activity allowing the observation of brain deregulations. That is to say, the over- or under-activation of cerebral regions reflecting the functioning of the brain.
What is Brain Mapping?
Brain mapping, it is the result of quantitative EEG analyses in the form of a graphical representation of electrical brain activity. It is a technique used to measure and analyze brain activity in a quantitative manner. It involves the use of advanced neuroimaging technologies.
We have different types of waves in the brain, each of them has a very important role to play. What is important to observe is their quantity and their location in order to know if there are deregulations of the brain function.
Brainwaves
| Waves | Delta | Theta | Alpha | Beta | Gamma |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Role |
Deep sleep, repair |
Creativity, dreams, sleep |
Relaxation, meditation |
Cognitive activity |
intense focus, problem-solving |
|
Wave length |
0.5-4 Hz |
4-7 Hz |
8-12 Hz |
13-30 Hz |
above 30 Hz |
|
Cerebral Origin |
Brain stem |
Limbic system |
Thalamus |
Cerebral cortex |
Cerebral cortex |
|
Standard |
|
|
|
|
|
|
If high |
Developmental delay, cognitive slowdown, pain, inflammation |
Attention, focus, and memory problems, cognitive slowdown |
Depression, moments of absence, ruminations |
Stress, rumination, nervousness, hyperactivity |
Agitation, anxiety, hyperactivity, hypervigilance |
|
If low |
Decreased or no deep sleep, no real rest. Fatigue or even exhaustion |
Difficulty falling asleep, fatigue or even exhaustion |
Anxiety, malaise, inability to relax |
Anxiety, fatigue, exhaustion |
Anxiety, fatigue, exhaustion |
|
Deregulations Example |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Possible explanation |
Shallow, unrefreshing sleep |
Fatigue or even exhaustion |
Sadness or even depression |
Stress
Impulsivity |
Anxiety
Body tensions |
What do we do with the brain map?
The quantitative data obtained from brain mapping can provide valuable insights into brain function and organization. It can help identify regions of the brain associated with specific cognitive processes, emotions, or neurological disorders. By examining brain activity patterns and connectivity we can gain a better understanding of how the brain works, how different brain regions interact, and how they may be affected by various interventions. By correlating these findings with your assessment results and rating scales, we can identify the specific brain areas to focus on during training.
Validation: Witnessing the Inner Workings of Your Brain
Similar to an X-ray revealing a broken arm, we now have the capability to examine and address the intricacies of the brain in mental health. Emerging science and advanced technology introduced the ability to observe the brain and determine the optimal protocol for intervention.
By obtaining a brain map, we gain insight into the electrical activity of your brain, enabling us to identify the precise areas and methods for brain training. With vivid color representations, we can pinpoint the regions presenting challenges. This process often brings validation to many individuals, as they no longer feel that their struggles are solely a product of their mind. Rather, their difficulties are acknowledged as being influenced, at least in part, by variations in brain function.
Guiding Neurofeedback Training through Brain Mapping
Another significant motive for undergoing a brain map is to direct neurofeedback training, providing us with an unprecedented opportunity to treat mental health challenges while visualizing the very organ we are targeting. With the completion of a brain map, we gain precise insights into the specific brain regions exhibiting differences. This knowledge enables us to pinpoint the most suitable neurofeedback training protocol to address your specific needs. Isn’t it remarkable? Tailored interventions designed to target your areas of difficulty directly! When viewed from this perspective, it becomes evident why neurofeedback is highly effective.
Facilitating Medication Management through Brain Mapping
Another crucial application of brain mapping is its ability to inform medication selection, which serves as the third reason individuals opt for this assessment. Although not yet widely practiced among psychiatrists, there are promising reports attesting to its effectiveness. In situations where individuals have had unfavorable experiences with medications or prefer to avoid the trial-and-error approach, a brain map can provide valuable assistance.
How does QEEG typically work?
- Electrode Placement: Electrodes are placed on specific locations on the scalp to detect and record the electrical activity of the brain. The number and placement of electrodes can vary depending on the specific QEEG system or protocol being used.
- Signal Acquisition: The electrodes capture the electrical signals produced by the neurons in the brain. These signals are amplified, filtered, and digitized to obtain a digital EEG signal.
- Data Analysis: The recorded EEG data is analyzed using specialized software. The software applies various mathematical algorithms and statistical techniques to extract quantitative measures and features from the EEG signal.
- Comparison to Normative Database: The analyzed EEG data is typically compared to a normative database or reference dataset. This comparison allows for the identification of deviations or abnormalities in an individual’s brainwave patterns.
- Visualization and Interpretation: The results of the QEEG analysis are often presented as visual representations, such as color-coded brain maps or spectral graphs. These visualizations provide insights into the distribution and characteristics of different brainwave frequencies across different regions of the brain. Trained professionals, interpret the results and look for patterns or abnormalities that may be associated with specific cognitive, emotional, or neurological conditions.
Parameters Assessed
1- Absolute Power: Absolute power represents the overall power or amplitude of specific frequency bands in the brainwave activity. It quantifies the strength of brainwave activity in specific frequency ranges, such as delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma. Deviations from normal ranges of absolute power in different frequency bands can indicate potential irregularities or imbalances.
2- Relative Power: Relative power compares the power or amplitude of different frequency bands relative to each other. It provides information about the distribution of power across different frequencies. For example, the ratio of alpha power to beta power can provide insights into the balance between relaxation and alertness states.
3- Coherence: Coherence measures the degree of synchronization or connectivity between different brain regions. It indicates the level of coordination and communication between neuronal populations. Higher coherence values suggest stronger functional connections, while lower coherence values may indicate disrupted or weak connectivity.
4- Peak Frequency: Peak frequency represents the frequency at which the brainwave activity is most prominent or concentrated. It is typically identified within the alpha or beta frequency ranges and can provide insights into an individual’s dominant frequency and overall brainwave pattern.
5- Asymmetry: Asymmetry measures the differences in brainwave activity between corresponding regions in the left and right hemispheres of the brain. It is often assessed for alpha and beta frequency bands and can provide information about hemispheric specialization and potential imbalances.
6- Event-Related Potentials (ERPs): ERPs are specific brainwave responses that occur in response to sensory, cognitive, or motor stimuli. They are time-locked to the onset of the stimulus and can provide insights into specific cognitive processes, such as attention, memory, or sensory processing.
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