WHAT IS CRANIAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION (CES)?
Cranial electrical stimulation is an FDA-approved form of neuromodulation (regulation of neural activity). In CES a low-intensity pulsed electric current is used to stimulate the cranium and brain. The current is very low (below 4 milliamps) and can’t be felt during the stimulation process. This stimulation process promotes alpha wave activity in the brain, resulting in regulation of neurotransmitters (like serotonin), endorphins and cortisol (stress hormone).
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WHAT CAN CRANIAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION BE USED FOR?
There have been a multitude of studies conducted to assess the effectiveness of CES. There are over 160 published human studies, including 23 randomized controlled trials, reporting positive results in the use of cranial electrical stimulation for a variety of purposes.
SYMPTOM REDUCTION:
Research studies and clinical experience suggest the many benefits of CES include reduction of the following symptom patterns: depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, insomnia, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cognitive dysfunction, traumatic brain injury, and decrease in assaultive behavior.
PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT:
Studies also support the use of Cranial Electrical Stimulation to enhance concentration and attention skills. This can facilitate ease and speed in the learning of new tasks.
Cranial Electric Microcurrent Stimulation (CES) impact on State Anxiety, Trait Anxiety and Depression. As measured by standardized psychological survey. Notice the significant decrease in symptoms measured immediately after treatment course and at 18 months after treatment.
Study by Ph.D. Ray Smith (1998)
Cranial Electric Microcurrent Stimulation (CES) compared against SSRIs for effectiveness above placebo. Notice CES scores 30 points above the best performing SSRI.
Meta-analysis study by Gilula & Kirsch (2005)
WHAT’S HAPPENING DURING A CES SESSION?
The primary outcome of Cranial electricalstimulation is to reset the brain to pre-stress stability levels, known as homeostasis. The cranial stimulation occurring during a typical CES session (20 minutes on average) is affecting changes in the following brain networks:
the limbic system (key functions include memory, arousal states and emotions – like fear, pleasure and anger)
the reticular activating system (mediates overall level of arousal/consciousness)
the hypothalamus (plays a major role in regulating our autonomic nervous system and our motivation and basic drives – like thirst, hunger, sleep and sex)
These changes result in an increase in levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin (indicated in regulation of mood and social behavior, appetite and digestion, sleep, memory, and sexual desire and function) and a decrease in the production of the hormone cortisol (high levels are correlated with increased stress response in the nervous system).
HOW LONG BEFORE I SEE RESULTS?
Research suggests that optimum benefit is gained from CES if it’s used 2 times a day for a period of 3 weeks. However, some people will notice results sooner than that. It’s recommended that continued use of CES on an as needed basis can help to facilitate permanence of the initial positive changes (neuromodulation).
WHAT CRANIAL ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SERVICES ARE OFFERED AT BHAKTI BRAIN HEALTH CLINIC?
IN-CLINIC SESSIONS:
CES is often used during a client session as an adjunct to neurofeedback training, psychotherapy, massage, chiropractic care or acupuncture. But, it is also provided as a stand-alone service. So, you can come in and do a Cranial Electrical Stimulation session in the relaxed environment of our wellness clinic.
RENTAL:
Since best results from Cranial Electrical Stimulation occur with frequent use (recommended twice daily for 3 weeks) we offer rental options on our CES units. For convenience you can rent a unit on a weekly basis. This allows you to use the CES unit as recommended AND when it is most convenient for you. No hassle with scheduling and trying to find time to fit it into your busy schedule! If you are interested in renting a CES unit from us please contact:
EVIDENCED-BASED SUPPORT FOR AVE (REFERENCES)
Barclay T. & Barclay R. (2014). A clinical trial of cranial electrotherapy stimulation for anxiety and comorbid depression. Journal of Affective Disorders. (64), 171-177. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2014.04.029
Bhargava, P. & Doshi, P.K. (2008). Neuromodulation for epilepsy. Journal of Pediatric Neuroscience. (3), 111-116.
Bystritsky, A., Kerwin, L., & Feusner, J. (2008). A pilot study of cranial electrotherapy stimulation for generalized anxiety disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. (69), 412-417.
Cipolla, M.J. (2009). The Cerebral Circulation. Chapter 5, Control of Cerebral Blood Flow. San Rafael (CA): Morgan & Claypool Life Sciences.
Cork, R.C., Wood, P., Ming, N., et al. (2004). The effect of cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) on pain associated with fibromyalgia. The Internet Journal of Anesthesiology. 8 (2).
Gunther, M. & Phillips, K. (2010). Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation for the Treatment of Depression. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services. 48(11), 37-42. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20100701-01.
Landea,R.G. & Gragnani, C. (2013). Efficacy of cranial electric stimulation for the treatment of insomnia: A randomized pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. (21), 8-13.
Lane‐Brown, A., Tate, R. (2009). Interventions for apathy after traumatic brain injury. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Issue 2. Art. No.: CD006341. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006341.pub2.
O’Connell, N.E., Wand, B.M., Marston L, et al. (2011). Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for chronic pain (Review). European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine. 47(2):1-124.
Southworth, S. (1999). Integrative Physiological and Behavioral Science January 1999, (Vol. 34), Issue 1, pp 43-53.
Steiker, L., Helmly, P., Clements, T., et al. (2010). New and promising technologies in the field of addiction recovery: highlights of emerging expertise. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions. (10), 331-338.
Tan, G., Dao, T,K., Smith, D.L. et al. (2010). Incorporating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies to expand psychological services to veterans suffering from chronic pain. Psychological Services. 7(3):148-161.
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At Bhakti Wellness Center, we are committed to the quality of our work because you are the one who benefits. We are dedicated to your health, vitality and well-being. We support your healing journey to wellness.
