LORETA Neurofeedback at Precuneus: A Standard Approach for Use in Incarcerated Populations With Substance Use Problems

Abstract

Introduction. The objective for this case grouping study was to evaluate the feasibility and application of a standard protocol of LORETA neurofeedback (LNFB) at the precuneus to aid inmates in reducing symptomatic issues and recidivism in a local correctional facility. LNFB is a noninvasive, operant conditioning technique for improving neural signatures of self-regulation to reduce stress and the experiences of psychopathology as measured by objective tests. Methods. This case grouping includes 63 individuals (19 female) with a mean age of 37.11 (SD = 9.69). All participants signed informed consent and completed objective measures and EEG/LORETA baseline data. All participants completed 20 sessions of LNFB at precuneus targeting α current source density (CSD) on 20 consecutive business days. Results. Significant reductions on most scales of the PAI were present post-LNFB training. The sLORETA data shows significant differences in all ranges of current source density in medial and inferior frontal regions, anterior cingulate, and parietal regions posttraining. Among the 63 participants, 74.6% had not been rearrested for any reason postrelease. Additionally, 82.5% had not been rearrested due to substance use postrelease. Discussion. This case grouping offers support to the potential use of standard procedures for LNFB protocol targeting the left precuneus in aiding inmates with substance use disorders (SUD) in achieving better self-regulation and reducing relapse and rearrest rates.