Safety and feasibility of Neurofeedback Training (NFB) during sleep in uncooperative child with autism: Case report

Abstract

Purpose: Neurofeedback (NFB) training has demonstrated significant potential in achieving symptoms reduction in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, children with low-functioning ASD are often uncooperative with the treatment. To evaluate whether NFB can eventually be administrated during sleep, a safety and feasibility pilot study was performed. Methods: A 9-year-old male patient diagnosed with ASD underwent NFB training for 30 min twice a week. This was operated at home during sleep by the parents. The NFB protocol aimed at increasing sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) while simultaneously decreasing theta activity over the sensorimotor strip. Results: NFB during sleep was feasible and did not yield adverse side effects. Parents reported improved behavioral and emotional symptoms and enhanced language development following NFB training. Subsequently, the patient could participate in regular sessions of NFB in wakefulness. Conclusion: Overall, parental reports suggest that applying NFB during sleep in low-functioning ASD is feasible and might offer promising therapeutic avenues.