Examining the Efficiency of Neurofeedback Therapy on Adults With Sensory Over Responsivity

Overview

Sensory Over-Responsivity (SOR) is characterized by a disruption in regulating sensory stimuli and can significantly impact pain perception and restrict daily participation and quality of life. Altered neurophysiological processes in SOR are documented, revealing reduced electroencephalogram at rest and P300 amplitudes, the latter tested through event-related potentials (ERP). Both may explain the failure to regulate incoming sensory stimuli. Neurofeedback (NF) therapy, a remedial treatment approach, aims at self-regulating the brain's neural activity and has proven its efficiency in treating comorbid SMD syndromes. Our study aims to investigate NF therapy efficiency in decreasing pain sensitivity, enhancing auditory ERP components of P300, increasing the power of the alpha band, life-satisfaction and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) scores in adults with SOR.

In this serial experimental research design, 10 individuals with SOR aged 21-45 years will participate. A medical and demographic questionnaire and the Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire-Intensity Scale (SRQ-IS) will be applied to screen for participation eligibility. Outcome measures will be conducted at 4-time points (1. baseline- 3 weeks pre-treatment; 2. before the first treatment session; 3. after the last treatment session; and 4. a month post-treatment) applying: The Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), the P300 component using a neurophysiological assessment of the 'Oddball paradigm', the alpha power using electroencephalogram resting state, and electronic versions of the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, and the Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire. Sixteen individually therapy sessions of 45 minutes each, twice a week, will be held at the same time of day. Repeated measures ANOVA or a non-parametric equivalent will be used to analyze the dependent variables measures change over time.