Below 0-3 Hz: Left and Right-Side Reward Frequencies

When working with reward frequencies above 0-3 Hz, we have found that a consistent relationship emerges between optimal reward frequencies for left and right-side training. If an optimal reward is found at any right-side site, such as T4-P4, then the left-side reward is expected to be at or close to 2 Hz higher. Now that we are training some people below 0-3 Hz by narrowing the reward band, this 2 Hz rule no longer applies. It is clear that left side still needs to train higher than right, but how much higher?We have used 3 Hz-wide filters above 0-3 Hz because narrower filters have slower response times. The critical variable for the brain’s response appears to be the center frequency, so we can have a very specific effect even with a rather wide frequency band. We have now found that we can narrow the filter down toward zero, and still get a strong and specific training response at these low frequencies. Above 0-3 Hz, however, we still want to continue with 3 Hz wide filters.When moving from right to left-side training with frequencies below 0-3 Hz, we do not just shift up the narrower band. For example 0-2 Hz right-side does not indicate 2-4 Hz left-side. We need to keep the lower frequency cut-off at zero and move up the higher frequency cut-off until we reach 0-3 Hz. From there the whole band can shift up.We have found our way with a sufficient number of clients training very low, that we can now look at whether any consistent relationship emerges between these very low left and right-side reward frequencies. We are in fact seeing a pattern. The appropriate left-side high frequency cut-offs are typically two times the right side. We need to allow for optimization for each individual client, but it does appear that there are guidelines that can serve as a starting point. Another way to look at this is to compare the center frequencies of the left and right-side reward bands. Below 0-3 Hz expect a left-side reward frequency two times that of the right-side reward.issue23_newsletter_1.gif

Author: Sue Othmer

Susan Othmer is Clinical Director of the EEG Institute. She has been involved in clinical research and the development of EEG biofeedback protocols since 1988. She teaches professional training courses in EEG biofeedback, and presents clinical research findings in professional forums.

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