Conditions
What Are the Conditions Treated With MeRT?
MeRT (Magnetic EKG/EEG Resonance Therapy) can treat various conditions and is FDA cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
For all other disorders, MeRT is currently being used “off-label” in the practice of medicine. However, FDA clearance studies for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are ongoing.
MeRT is also used “off-label” for ADHD, Learning Disorders, Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Anxiety, and other brain disorders.
Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Find Out if MeRT Can Treat Your Specific Condition
MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
According to the Mayo Clinic, over three million people are diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder each year. And new research suggests that altered neural circuitry can create risk factors for depression.
MeRT uses rTMS (repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is FDA-cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). TMS has been successful in treating depression, particularly when a patient has not responded to medication or other therapies.
Clinically depressed patients have visible markers in their EEG studies. This typically comprises an imbalance in brainwave activity between the left and right hemispheres, called asymmetry.
By performing a quantitative EEG on each patient, we can determine their exact brainwave frequency. Then we evaluate the EEG results and develop a treatment plan of targeted rTMS specific to that patient’s unique condition. Then we correct the brain asymmetry by using a magnetic coil to neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. As a result, the MeRT protocol can reduce depression symptoms.
Parkinson’s Disease, A Nervous System Disorder
In patients who have Parkinson’s disease, specific neurons in the brain begin to break down and die. Many symptoms of Parkinson’s occur because of the loss of neurons that produce a chemical in the brain called dopamine. These declining levels of dopamine cause abnormal brain activity, which then manifests in Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is progressive, and currently, there is no cure. However, there are medications that can improve symptoms.
Parkinson’s Symptoms
- Tremors are most common, usually starting in the hands or an arm or leg, and occur even when the body is at rest.
- Rigid muscles can limit movement anywhere in the body and also cause pain.
- Slowed or impaired movement can make simple tasks more difficult and time-consuming. Steps when walking can become shorter and disjointed, and it can be hard to do everyday tasks like getting out of a chair or going to the bathroom.
- Balance issues.
- Stooped posture.
- Decrease in automatic movements such as blinking or smiling.
- Speech can become monotone. The patient may slur, or talk faster or slower than normal.
- Difficulty with writing.
- Depression, anxiety, and fear.
- Sleep disorders such as insomnia and/or sleeping during the day.
- Generalized fatigue.
- Incontinence or difficulty urinating.
- Constipation (digestion is slower).
- Changes in blood pressure with movement, such as a sudden drop in blood pressure when going from a sitting position to standing.
- Dysfunction with the sense of smell such as no longer being able to identify some odors.
- Generalized or specific pain in various areas of the body.
- Cognitive issues such as dementia usually occur in the later stages of the disease. Lewy Body dementia, which can cause hallucinations, is a common type of dementia experienced by Parkinson’s patients.
- Chewing, eating, and swallowing problems can occur as the disease progresses due to slowed muscle movements.
- Breathing problems.
The causes of the disease are unknown. However, both genetics and environment can play a role. Some gene mutations can cause Parkinson’s, but these are rare, and usually only seen when many people in a family have the disease. Ongoing exposure to the environment from herbicides and pesticides may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s in later years, but this is also uncommon.
We offer MeRT for Parkinson’s Disease. MeRT is an emerging technology that’s a unique and improved version of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) and is a much more individualized approach to brain modulation, tailored to the patient’s needs based on frequency, location, and power used. TMS modulates the brain’s electrical activity by using magnetic fields that pass through the scalp from an electromagnetic coil.
While the neuromodulation equipment used in the MeRT process is FDA-cleared for the treatment of depression that has been resistant to medications, it may also be used off-label for other disorders in the practice of medicine. These include Parkinson’s disease, Dementia, and other brain-related conditions. Additionally, this treatment is non-invasive and pain-free.
We perform a quantitative EEG before modulation treatment starts in order to determine exactly the frequency of your brain.
Cognitive Performance
Cognitive Performance can decline over time due to age, chronic stress, and certain health issues. Even if you are an overall healthy person, daily life, stressors, and other demands can cause burnout. You may not feel as good physically or as mentally sharp as you once were. No matter what your occupation or situation, the times we live in today are full of non-stop activities that can take a toll on you. Most Americans today are not getting enough sleep, which can also exacerbate the mental toll.
Symptoms of decreased cognitive performance can include:
- Poor concentration
- Lack of energy
- Burnout
- Lack of motivation
- Chronic fatigue
- Brain fog
- Depression/anxiety
- Reduced ability to handle stress
- Memory issues
- Overall feelings of dullness or numbness.
Your brain functions and reactions are unique to you. No two brains ever function exactly the same. The MeRT treatment protocol is customized specifically for you. We use a quantitative EEG to identify any dysregulation or decline and then use a targeted approach that focuses on improving function in the areas of your brain that are not performing as they should.
Your individual test results allow us to use the data to develop a treatment approach specifically for you in order to optimize your brain function. The treatment protocol uses a magnet to gently stimulate distinct areas of the brain, which can lead to improved communication and functionality.
AUTISM
A diagnosis of autism can be overwhelming for parents, but early intervention can be key to the child’s development. Kids don’t usually grow out of autism, but it is possible for them to function very well.
We offer MeRT treatment for children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). MeRT is not currently FDA-cleared for autism and is considered “off label.” However, studies have shown that for many children, it can be instrumental in helping them develop skills to function more normally.
Many different types of therapies can help with autism, and MeRT can be used along with any of them
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
The Brain Treatment Center offers MeRT treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussions. Our non-pharmaceutical, non-invasive treatment has been highly successful in treating the after-effects of a TBI or concussion. If you have suffered a head injury, this treatment may help you.
Research has shown that people who have experienced a traumatic brain injury will have a higher power in their delta band frequencies and lower power in the alpha bands. MeRT can help align these frequencies.
People with traumatic brain injuries often go through other types of therapies to help them regain function and cope with their injury or disability. MeRT treatment can be used in conjunction with these therapies.
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, can be a life-altering mental health problem. It is caused by experiencing or witnessing terrifying events, violence, or going through extended periods of extreme stress.
The onset of symptoms can occur right after a stressful time or can appear many years later, such as in child abuse cases. PTSD can be severe enough to completely disrupt someone’s life and make it difficult to function normally.
New research is confirming that factors that may contribute to PTSD cause changes in brain function. Often, PTSD will show up as a disruption in the front of the brain. Specifically, it is common to see two competing alpha frequencies in the frontal lobe and slow-rolling waveforms (delta and theta waves) drowning out what should be a single strong alpha frequency. MeRT can help improve brainwave function and thus reduce PTSD symptoms.
The MeRT Process for Treating Conditions
MeRT is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment protocol that incorporates rTMS. However, TMS is a more generalized approach because it can only target a single location in the brain with one frequency.
The MeRT process begins with sophisticated diagnostics and imaging so we can customize treatment for each patient. We tailor the treatment protocol based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet, specific to each person’s unique condition.
We deliver treatment at two-week intervals, then do additional qEEG tests to assess a patient’s progress and modify the treatment as needed.
Using the precise and highly tailored MeRT protocol, we can increase brain communication and synchronization, which can lead to significant and long-lasting improvements.
Tinnitus
Studies show I in 3 Australian will experience tinnitus within their lifetime, while 1 in 6 will have constant tinnitus symptoms. Causes of tinnitus range from hearing loss, ear wax, exposure to loud noises, ear infections or tumor’s, head inquiries, medications and Ménière’s disease. Tinnitus presents or is experienced as a buzzing, ringing, hissing, whistling, swooshing or clicking sound that impairs on the quality of life.
Given recent implication of brain nerves in the pathophysiology of tinnitus, MeRT℠ begins by mapping the brain activity and identifying areas that may not be communicating effectively in people with Tinnitus. With personalized protocols and an understanding that every individual is different, parts of the brain not communicating effectively are specifically nurtured to effect global rhythm or synchrony.
By synchronizing the brain or neural activity communication, individuals with tinnitus can experience recovery and enhanced reduction in the pitch, volume and intensity of tinnitus, and improved quality of life*.
*Any result shown are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on individual user and are not guaranteed.
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong developmental condition and is diagnosed in 1 in 20 Australian children. Individuals with ADHD experience a wide range of different presentations and degree of severity around attention and hyperactivity which interferes with learning and social relationships.
Given the implication of poor communication in neural activity in the brain of a child with ADHD, MeRT℠ begins by mapping your brain activity and identifying areas that may not be communicating effectively. With personalised protocols and an understanding that every individual is different, parts of the brain not communicating effectively are specifically nurtured to strengthen their functionality and recovery.
By synchronizing the brain or neural activity communication, individuals with ADHD can experience improvement in attention and concentration, eye contact, communication and learning, sociability, and adaptability*.
*Any result shown are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on individual user and are not guaranteed.
There may be exceptions, but you will need to discuss your situation with the clinician.
Anxiety, Panic Attacks And Extreme Stress
Anxiety is a chronic mental illness and affects 1 in 7 Australians. Lived experience of anxiety differs between individuals and presents as varying degree of symptom severity. General symptoms of anxiety include difficulty falling asleep, decreased concentration and focus, restlessness and increased hearth rates and breathing.
Given the implication of poor communication in neural activity in the brain of individuals with anxiety, MeRT℠ begins by mapping your brain activity and identifying areas that may not be communicating effectively. With personalized protocols and understanding that every individual is different, these areas are then specifically nurtured to strengthen their functionality and recovery.
By synchronizing the brain or neural activity communication, individuals with Anxiety can experience improvement in sleep quality and duration, concentration and focus, adaptability to change, mood and motivation, and reduction in other scales of anxiety.
*Any result shown are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on individual user and are not guaranteed. There may be exceptions, but you will need to discuss your situation with the clinician.