Neurofeedback May Help Alleviate ‘Chemo Brain’ in Cancer Patients

Many of us know loved ones and friends that have gone through treatment for cancer. Chemotherapy can be a life-saving treatment for many cancer patients. However, the side effects of chemo can be debilitating. The term ‘chemo brain’ refers to the cognitive impairment many people may experience both during and after chemotherapy. Patients may experience an increase in brain fog, difficulty focusing, trouble with word finding and memory loss. These symptoms typically improve over time but may persist in some people.

As of right now, there is no treatment for ‘chemo brain’ but neurofeedback may offer a solution. A UCLA pilot study found that neurofeedback showed promising results in improving the cognitive side effects of chemotherapy.

Prior to training, participants were experiencing the effects of ‘chemo brain’ and reported that this was interfering with their ability to work and function normally. Researchers had participants complete 18 sessions of neurofeedback over the span of six to nine weeks. Neurocognitive and psychological testing done post-training showed significant improvements in memory, focus and cognitive performance. Participants reported better everyday performance following neurofeedback training.

Studies like this one demonstrate the value of neurofeedback as a possible intervention for the negative neurocognitive effects of chemotherapy. While more research is needed, there is reason to hope as neurofeedback becomes more widely utilized. 

If you know someone who is suffered after chemotherapy, please consider sending them our information. We can help with QEEG and individualized neurofeedback at Mind Body Neuro of Colorado and Mind Body Neuro of Illinois.