Expect Initial QEEG Brain Mapping
QEEG brain mapping is a non-invasive test that is designed to map and evaluate the electrical activity of the human brain. The procedure can help to identify areas in the brain that may be dysfunctional, causing certain symptoms and disorders. This information can guide treatment, including the use of medications and therapeutic interventions.
It can also provide valuable insights into a client’s psychological state. Using a qEEG Brain Map, a healthcare professional can identify challenges and create a plan of action that will allow the patient to reach his or her peak mental performance. In addition, this type of examination is useful to identify and treat cognitive impairments, including those resulting from concussions, stroke, and learning disabilities.
It’s important to know that while the process of QEEG brain mapping is not painful, the client must remain relaxed and alert. During the session, a technician will apply conductive gel to the patient’s head. A special cap will be used to capture the brainwaves. These recordings are compared to a database of thousands of “typical” brains. If any patterns or abnormalities are discovered, the recording will be reviewed to determine if there is a more dramatic pathology or a psychological issue.
What to Expect Initial QEEG Brain Mapping
Before the session begins, the technician will clean the forehead, ear lobes, and scalp. He will then apply conductive gel to all 19 sensors. After this, the technician will hook up the equipment to the cap and monitor the brainwaves for a period of time. While the EEG is being monitored, the technician will also ensure that each sensor is responding properly.
Once the equipment is hooked up, the technician will start the process of mapping the patient’s brain. The qEEG brain scan is usually performed over 20 minutes. For the first six to 10 minutes, the patient will have his or her eyes open. However, the second part of the recording involves the eyes being closed for a period of time. As the recording continues, the technician will prompt the patient to open and close his or her eyes.
The entire qEEG process will last between 30 and 45 minutes. During this time, the patient will be asked to sit in a comfortable chair. They will be prompted to close and open their eyes at specific times, and the technician will encourage them to relax and stay still. Afterwards, the recording will be sent to a qEEG software program, which will interpret the data and analyze it.
If the results of a qEEG are inconclusive, the technician will ask the patient to undergo another assessment. For example, he or she may be asked to open and close his or her eyes for a specific stint, or the patient may be asked to lie down on a bed for several minutes. Ultimately, the technician will evaluate the areas of the brain that are not responding to treatment.
Upon completion of the testing, the qEEG results will be compared to a database of typical brains. This analysis can reveal a wide range of issues and disorders, including depression, anxiety, stress, and traumatic brain injuries.