Robert E. Longo, LPC, NC, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
For: Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Pain
We have been using the Alpha-Stim® 100 (the CES component) at our hospital for over 18 months, with both residential and acute care patients, ages of 12 and older. We primarily use CES to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia; however, we have used CES to treat pain, headaches, migraine headaches, and aggressive behaviors. We survey patients pre and post treatment, and have had excellent results and compliments from all patient groups. The majority of patients report feeling a decrease in pain (when pain is a problem), and a reduction in headache pain (when headaches have been present. Most impressive, we have found that the clear majority of patients report feeling calm and relaxed, even after just one treatment. Those with sleep problems generally report sleeping better with Alpha-Stim®. When used daily, we have seen a reduction in aggressive behavior in patients who have an aggression problem. When using the Alpha-Stim® in conjunction with diaphragmatic breathing and thermofeedback, we have had good success helping patients calm down migraine headaches.
The Alpha-Stim® is an excellent treatment tool. Our standard protocol is to combine it with peripheral biofeedback for patients who are learning self-regulation and relaxation skills. Patient use the Alpha-Stim® simultaneously while practicing diaphragmatic breathing and peripheral biofeedback and/or HeartMath. Our patients look forward to coming into our Stress Reduction Clinic and Biofeedback Lab.
