IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback
Dr. Mistry looks beyond symptoms to understand how the jaw, muscles, airway, sleep, stress, and nervous system may be working together.
IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN) is one of the technologies Dr. Mistry may incorporate into an individualized care plan to support relaxation and nervous system regulation.
What Is IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback?
IASIS MCN is a gentle form of neurofeedback that uses extremely low-intensity electrical signals while monitoring brain activity.
Unlike traditional neurofeedback, you don’t have to watch a screen, play a game, or consciously change your brain activity. You simply sit back and relax while the technology does its work.
Chronic Stress, Anxiety and the Fight-or-Flight Response
Stress is a normal part of life. Our bodies are designed to respond to a stressful or threatening situation by activating the sympathetic nervous system, commonly known as the fight-or-flight response.
When the stressful situation passes, the body should be able to settle back into a more relaxed state.
But chronic stress and anxiety can keep the body’s stress-response systems activated for prolonged periods. Over time, this can contribute to muscle tension, disrupted sleep, headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, digestive issues and other physical symptoms. Persistent stress has also been associated with changes in immune function and inflammatory processes within the body.
For someone with TMJ/TMD, this connection can be particularly important. Stress may contribute to increased jaw tension, clenching and muscle activity, potentially creating a cycle of stress, tension and discomfort.
Helping the Nervous System Regulate
IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback is designed to support relaxation and nervous system regulation.
Rather than asking the patient to consciously control their brain activity, IASIS provides extremely brief, low-intensity feedback while monitoring electrical brain activity.
The goal is to give the brain and nervous system an opportunity to move away from patterns associated with persistent stress and toward a more regulated state.
Early research into IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback has shown promising results related to symptoms of anxiety and post-traumatic stress, although continued research is needed.
What Else Is Microcurrent Neurofeedback Being Studied For?
Neurofeedback and nervous system regulation are areas of growing research.
IASIS and other forms of neurofeedback have been explored or used in individuals experiencing a variety of neurological, behavioral and stress-related concerns, including:
- Migraines and Headaches
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Difficulty Sleeping
- PTSD
- ADHD
- OCD
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Tics
- Difficulty with focus and concentration
Research varies significantly depending on the condition and type of neurofeedback being studied. IASIS should not be considered a cure or replacement for appropriate medical or mental health care for these conditions.
Dr. Mistry views Microcurrent Neurofeedback as another technology that may help support relaxation and nervous system regulation as part of a broader, individualized approach to care.
Neurofeedback and TMJ/TMD Care
The nervous system can influence muscle tension, clenching, sleep and the way the body responds to discomfort.
That’s why Dr. Mistry doesn’t simply ask, “Where does it hurt?”
She wants to understand why your body may be struggling.
Her evaluation takes into account:
- Jaw and bite
- Head and neck muscles
- Airway and breathing
- Sleep
- Posture
- Stress levels
- Nervous system
When appropriate, IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback may be incorporated alongside other technologies and therapies within your personalized treatment plan.
A Comprehensive Approach to TMJ Care in Vancouver, WA
Dr. Mistry incorporates technology when it can provide another piece of information or another way to support a patient’s overall care.
If you’re struggling with TMJ/TMD, jaw clenching, chronic stress, headaches, poor sleep, or persistent head and neck discomfort, schedule a consultation with Dr. Priya Mistry in Vancouver, WA.
Discover whether IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback may be appropriate for your individualized care plan.