Version 1
: Received: 17 October 2023 / Approved: 17 October 2023 / Online: 17 October 2023 (11:24:17 CEST)
Version 2
: Received: 10 January 2024 / Approved: 11 January 2024 / Online: 12 January 2024 (02:39:15 CET)
How to cite:
Othmer, S.; Othmer, S.F. Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequency:
Method and Theory. Preprints2023, 2023101085. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202310.1085.v1
Othmer, S.; Othmer, S.F. Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequency:
Method and Theory. Preprints 2023, 2023101085. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202310.1085.v1
Othmer, S.; Othmer, S.F. Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequency:
Method and Theory. Preprints2023, 2023101085. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202310.1085.v1
APA Style
Othmer, S., & Othmer, S.F. (2023). Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequency:
Method and Theory. Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202310.1085.v1
Chicago/Turabian Style
Othmer, S. and Susan FitzGerald Othmer. 2023 "Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequency:
Method and Theory" Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202310.1085.v1
Abstract
Clinical work conducted over the last seventeen years at the EEG Institute in Los Angeles and by other neurofeedback providers around the world has demonstrated the utility of extending frequency-based neurofeedback deep into the infra-low frequency (ILF) region, using the method of endogenous neuromodulation described herein. The method is characterized by the absence of any overt reinforcements, which makes it possible to extend the clinical reach to extremely low frequencies. As the training frequency is lowered, the signal becomes more difficult to discriminate, and ultimately it can only be discerned by the brain itself, in the process of endogenous neuromodulation. The method emulates how the brain does skill learning in general: It must observe itself performing the skill, with feedback on its performance.
While the immediate target of ILF neurofeedback is enhanced self-regulatory competence--with symptomatic relief and functional recovery the secondary consequences, progressive lowering of the target frequencies has led to improved outcomes in application to challenging dysfunctions such as episodic suicidality, migraine, seizures, and bipolar mood swings. The work has also yielded insights into how the frequency domain is organized. The training proceeds best at frequencies that are specific to each individual, and these are referred to as optimal response frequencies (ORFs).
These frequencies differ for various placements but stand in two fixed relationships to one another, one that holds over the EEG spectral range, and another that holds over the entire ILF range. Training in the ILF region engages the dynamics of the glial-neuronal networks, which govern tonic, resting state regulation. The collective clinical experience with ILF neuromodulation within a large practitioner network supports the case for making protocol-based, individualized ‘homeodynamic’ regulation a therapeutic priority, particularly for our most impacted clinical populations: addiction, trauma formations, traumatic brain injury, and the dementias. The case is made for further outcome studies and foundational research.
Biology and Life Sciences, Neuroscience and Neurology
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
