Case Study from Dr. Tom Boone – August 8. 2010 PDF

Disclaimer: The content below was generated with the assistance of AI and then reviewed and edited by BrainMaster Technologies, Inc. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Overview #

This case study, documented by Dr. Tom Boone (August 8, 2010), presents a detailed analysis of EEG abnormalities characterized by left-frontal beta excess and a global deficit of alpha activity. The study includes waveform review, topographic mapping, asymmetry and coherence analysis, and targeted neurofeedback recommendations.

EEG Waveform Observations #

Excess Left-Frontal Beta Activity #

Page 1 displays raw EEG tracings showing marked elevations in beta activity over the left frontal region, consistent with high-frequency beta (25–30 Hz).

Global Alpha Deficit #

The same tracings reveal a reduced presence of alpha rhythms, later confirmed in topographic maps.

Topographic Map Findings #

Alpha and Beta Distribution #

As shown on page 2, Z-score topographic maps highlight:

• Strong left-frontal beta excess (particularly 25–30 Hz).

• Reduced alpha power, most pronounced in slow alpha (8–10 Hz) as confirmed on page 4.

Asymmetry and Coherence Patterns #

Amplitude Asymmetry #

Page 3 demonstrates asymmetry patterns mirroring the amplitude abnormalities—primarily driven by localized beta excess.

Beta Hypocoherence #

Coherence maps show beta hypocoherence, attributed not to deficient connectivity but to the isolated beta elevation in the left frontal region, causing functional disconnection from other areas.

Detailed Frequency-Band Insights #

Page 4 clarifies:

• Alpha deficit is concentrated within the 8.0–10.0 Hz range.

• Beta excess is localized to 25–30 Hz, matching the waveform observations.

Neurofeedback Recommendations #

Primary Training Objectives #

The report outlines specific goals:

• Reduce excessive frontal beta

• Increase posterior alpha

Suggested Protocols #

• Live Z-Score Training (LZT) recommended for normalizing amplitude deviations.

• Target sites for amplitude-based training:
  Fp1, Fp2, F3, F4, F7, F8, C3, C4, P3, P4

• If avoiding frontal mood-related regions initially, begin posteriorly with C3, C4, P3, P4 to stabilize alpha.

• A simplified approach: Train absolute power in alpha and beta at F7, F8, C3, C4.

Caution Against Coherence Training #

Coherence training is not recommended because it may inadvertently increase beta coupling, counteracting the goal of lowering frontal beta activity.

Key Takeaways #

• The client demonstrates left-frontal beta hyperactivity and a global alpha deficit, especially in slow alpha frequencies.

• Neurofeedback focus should be on down-training frontal beta and up-training posterior alpha.

• Live Z-Score Training provides a structured framework for addressing the identified abnormalities.