The Brain Map
A Customized, Accurate Analysis Of Your Brain
The heart of our system is the Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG), also known as a brain map. A Brain Map is a non-invasive tool we use to identify the problem areas of the brain. The QEEG is designed to objectively and scientifically evaluate a person’s brainwave patterns and takes the guesswork out of determining a person’s condition. There is no more accurate tool available today for identifying irregular brainwaves.
The Brain Map process is painless, safe, accurate and non-invasive. There really is no better tool for analyzing brainwaves and collecting customized data for each individual.
How Does A Brain Map Work?
A brain map involves scanning the brainwaves on the surface of the scalp using a nylon cap. This method is known as a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG) and provides the most accurate recording of your brain function. The system then compares your brainwave activity to a database of established standards of normal brain function to determine if problems are present. The comparison is both age and gender stratified meaning we are comparing apples to apples. It does not identify specific conditions: It shows a map of problem areas in the brain that we can use to expertly determine likely neurological conditions.
The procedure consists of placing a snug cap on the head. Embedded within the cap are 19 small sensors that are designed to measure and record electrical activity (or brainwaves) coming from the brain. These sensors DO NOT put any electrical current into the brain – they simply record signals coming from the brain.
A brain map takes about 30 minutes to complete. Once the mapping is done, your data is uploaded to our database and a report is generated. Dr. Johnson will analyze your data and determine whether or not to accept your case. If you are a good candidate for care an individualized care option will be prepared.
To help demystify what a brain map or qEEG is, I made this video. At Michigan Brain Health in Shelby Township, Michigan, we use qEEG guided neurofeedback combined with a whole-body approach to optimizing brain and body function. Take a look -> www.brainmapvideo.com
The Neurologic Evaluation
Functional Neurology
A Crucial Distinction For Optimal Results
Traditionally, neurology tends to look at diseases of the nervous system as black-and-white with one side being optimal neurologic function and the other being neurological disease such as tumors, strokes, etc. While this approach is important to rule out pathology it can fall short in evaluating chronic neurobehavioral symptoms that many people struggle with on a daily basis.
Functional Neurology looks at the dysfunction of the nervous system as different shades of gray looking for subtle changes in the nervous system before they become distinct pathologies. Gaining this information allows us to create individual therapy plans. Rehab may come in the form of home-based activities: visual therapy, cerebellar, Interactive Metronome, etc.
Our clinic has been practicing functional neurology for the past decade and helped hundreds of patients with a variety of neurobehavioral symptoms using this special exercise approach.
The Functional Neurologic Examination Looks For:
- Frontal, Parietal, Temporal and Occipital lobe strength and weakness.
- Differences in Left / Right Hemisphere imbalances.
- Cerebellar function – an area of the brain responsible for coordinated movement and thought
- Primitive Reflexes are survival responses we are all born with to help us navigate the world while our nervous systems are still immature. These responses should not be present past 12 months of age but are often retained in those with Autism and ADHD. If present after age 12 months this represents a failure of normal nervous system development and needs to be addressed if we hope to see the proper maturation of the brain.
We will explain the findings of functional neurologic testing as they relate to your health concerns. This will give you insight into how we may be able to help.
Why is Functional Neurology Important?
Because Cognitive/Emotional Skills are built on motor skills. In other words, the brain develops in a very specific order. If this order is disrupted in any way it can show up as neurobehavioral symptoms like ADHD, Autism, Anxiety or Depression.
Why Brainwaves Are Important
Brainwaves are extremely important to how we function. There are 4 main brainwaves, and each of them plays a role in regulating a variety of brain and body functions. From sleep to emotions to critical thinking, we would not be who we are without our unique healthy brainwave activity. Let’s learn about each one of the brainwaves our brain produces.
Beta Waves
These brainwaves are commonly observed while we are awake. They are involved in conscious thought, logical thinking, writing, reading and stimulation. Having the right amount of beta waves allows us to focus and complete school or work-based tasks easily. Having too much beta may lead to us experiencing excessive stress and/or anxiety.
- Too much: Adrenaline, anxiety, high arousal, inability to relax, stress
- Too little: ADHD, daydreaming, depression, poor cognition
- Optimal: Conscious focus, memory, problem solving
- Increase beta waves: Coffee, energy drinks, various stimulants
Alpha Waves
This frequency range bridges the gap between our conscious thinking and subconscious mind. It helps us calm down when necessary and promotes feelings of deep relaxation. If we become stressed, a phenomenon called “alpha blocking” may occur which involves the beta waves “blocking” the production of alpha waves.
- Too much: Daydreaming, inability to focus, too relaxed
- Too little: Anxiety, high stress, insomnia, OCD
- Optimal: Relaxation
- Increase alpha waves: Alcohol, marijuana, relaxants, some antidepressants
Theta Waves
This particular frequency range is involved in daydreaming and sleep. Theta waves are connected to us experiencing and feeling deep and raw emotions. Too much theta activity may cause depression and make people “highly suggestible” because they are in a deeply relaxed, semi-hypnotic state. Theta can improve intuition, creativity, and makes us feel more natural. It is also involved in restorative sleep.
- Too much: ADHD, depression, hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattentiveness
- Too little: Anxiety, poor emotional awareness, stress
- Optimal: Creativity, emotional connection, intuition, relaxation
- Increase theta waves: Depressants
Delta Waves
These are the slowest recorded brain waves in human beings. They are associated with the deepest levels of relaxation and restorative, healing sleep. Adequate production of delta waves helps us feel completely rejuvenated after we wake up from a good night’s sleep.
- Too much: Concussions, learning problems, inability to think, severe ADHD
- Too little: Inability to rejuvenate body, inability to revitalize the brain, poor sleep
- Optimal: Immune system, natural healing, restorative / deep sleep
- Increase delta waves: Depressants, sleep
Want To Schedule Your Brain Map?
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Our system is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has already approved neurofeedback training for stress management, to help control chaotic thoughts, help people relax, help them meditate. In fact, the FDA recognizes that neurofeedback has NEVER produced a serious side effect since it was first discovered over 40 years ago. There are also thousands of research articles and personal testimonials that prove its effectiveness. Click a box below to learn more.
Contact Us
Office Information
Michigan Brain Health
Karl R.O.S. Johnson, DC, BCN, DNMSC, FIFHI, FICPA
51735 Van Dyke Ave
Shelby Township, MI 48316
(586) 731-8840
Hours Of Operation
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday
9:00 AM – Noon, 2:00 – 6:00 PM
Tuesday
2:00 – 6:00 PM
Fri, Sat, Sun
Closed