by Rosa Kincaid, MD
Are you anxious? Not sleeping? Depressed? Do you have physical pain that is untouched by conventional medical protocols, such as fibromyalgia? Are you tired of the side effects of prescription medications? If you answered yes to any of these questions you might want to investigate a non-drug therapy called cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES). CES is a technology that has been used effectively to treat the above conditions for over 30 years. This quiet option has a proven track record of successfully helping both children and adults overcome anxiety, pain, depression and insomnia.
Before we continue our conversation about treating these modern maladies, let’s first talk about the brain. In all living creatures, the brain produces a variety of wave forms depending on activity level. Consider these various wave forms as the electrical activity of the brain. The five basic brain wave forms that we study in humans are gamma, beta, alpha, theta and delta. All but gamma can be seen on a standard EEG (electro-encephalogram). Gamma waves are produced during active thought. Beta waves are considered present when a person is alert and working. Both gamma and beta are associated with the conscious mind. Next is the alpha wave state, which is produced when a person is relaxed and reflective. Below that is theta, where the person feels drowsy and/or meditative. Interestingly, theta brain waves are produced during hypnosis. Finally, delta brain waves are formed during deep, restorative sleep. Theta and delta waves are associated with the subconscious mind.
The brain wave form that stimulates the immune system, increases the production of serotonin (a neurotransmitter believed to be a contributor to thoughts of well-being and happiness) and quiets the mind chatter is alpha. Here the conscious mind is subdued; the person is calm. CES stimulates the brain with a micro-current of less than one milliampere (one millionth of an ampere) in a very specific manner so as to allow the brain to move into the alpha brain wave pattern.
At Kincaid Medical Associates we prescribe and supervise the use of the Alpha-Stim CES medical device. It utilizes micro-current to bring the brain into the alpha wave state. Treatment options begin with a 20 minute protocol and can go as long as 60 minutes. At all times the patient is in control of the therapy and aware of their surroundings. After therapy most people feel calmer, less distressed and better able to focus on mental tasks. The effects of Alpha-Stim therapy are both cumulative and long lasting. Furthermore, if the therapy improves the symptoms for which it is applied then the Alpha-Stim device may be ordered for home use.
Cases where micro current electrical therapy should not be used include pregnancy and on those with pacemakers. Other than these two instances, therapy with the Alpha-Stim CES is effective for controlling anxiety, depression, insomnia and pain. With over 55 scientific studies proving its effectiveness, we at Kincaid Medical are confident in recommending this treatment option to our patients who desire a non-pharmaceutical alternative to improving their health. Please call our office to speak with our specially trained staff to determine if this therapy is right for you.
For more information please contact Rosa Kincaid, MD at Kincaid Medical Associates, St. Louis, MO 63103, 314-531-0008, www.drrosakincaid.com.