Hemoencephalography

Hemoencephalography (HEG) is a type of neurofeedback technique that measures the brain's blood flow and oxygenation. It is a non-invasive method that uses infrared sensors to monitor changes in the color and other properties of the blood in the brain. This information is then used to provide feedback to the individual, who can then learn to control and improve their brain function.

History

Hemoencephalography was first developed in the late 1990s by Dr. Hershel Toomim and his colleagues. They were interested in finding a way to measure the brain's blood flow and oxygenation in real time, without the need for invasive procedures or expensive equipment. Their research led to the development of HEG, which has since been used in a variety of research and clinical settings.

Method

In a typical HEG session, an individual wears a headband that contains infrared sensors. These sensors measure the amount of light that is absorbed by the blood in the brain. The more oxygenated the blood is, the less light it absorbs. This information is then displayed on a computer screen, allowing the individual to see their brain's blood flow and oxygenation in real time.

The individual can then use this feedback to learn how to control their brain function. For example, they might be asked to perform a task that requires concentration, such as solving a puzzle or reading a book. By watching the feedback on the screen, they can see how their brain responds to this task and learn how to improve their performance.

Applications

Hemoencephalography has been used in a variety of applications, including:

• Neurofeedback therapy: HEG is often used in neurofeedback therapy, where it can help individuals learn to control their brain function and improve their cognitive abilities.
• Research: HEG is also used in research settings, where it can provide valuable insights into the brain's function and how it responds to different tasks and stimuli.
• Clinical settings: In clinical settings, HEG can be used to monitor the brain function of patients with conditions such as ADHD, autism, and depression.

See also

• Neurofeedback
• Biofeedback
• Brain–computer interface