A Non-invasive and Drug Free Treatment of ADHD
ADHD (formerly known as ADD) stands for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This condition affects millions of children and can often continue into adulthood.
This treatment is now available at the Brain Treatment Center. It’s called MeRT, which stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy.
Simply stated we use a magnetic field to stimulate and balance brain function, guided by very sophisticated imaging and diagnostics. It is completely non-invasive and drug-free.
ADHD involves a combination of problems such as hyperactivity, impulsive behavior and difficulty paying attention. This condition can make it hard to focus or concentrate resulting in learning problems, poor school performance, relationship troubles and low self-esteem.
Conditions that can can often accompany ADHD include:
- Anxiety.
- Learning disabilities.
- Conduct disorder.
- Mood disorders, depression and bipolar disorder.
- Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
- OCD (Obsessive compulsive disorder).
- Autism spectrum disorder.
- Tourette syndrome.
Symptoms of ADHD
- Not paying attention to details.
- Difficulty focusing in general.
- Not listening to others.
- Hyperactivity and inability to be still.
- Lack of follow through on schoolwork, chores, or other tasks.
- Lack of organizational skills.
- No interest in things that require focus.
- Easily distracted.
- Forgetfulness.
- Being fidgety or squirmy.
- Talks too much.
- Interrupting others who are talking or engaged in other activities.
- Impatience.
- Difficulty learning because of poor attention span.
Currently the cause for ADHD is not known, however research is ongoing. We do know that genetics may be involved and problems with the central nervous system can also contribute.
Studies have been completed regarding the link between gut health and ADHD; preliminary research has shown that there is a connection between the two. Additionally, some studies indicate certain food preservatives or dyes can also contribute to attention disorders in children.
Conventional Treatment for ADHD
There are a variety of medications that are commonly prescribed for treatment of ADHD. These seem to balance levels of some neurotransmitters in the brain and can help improve symptoms. These drugs do not cure ADHD, but they can help to ease and manage the symptoms. Some non-stimulant antidepressants are sometimes prescribed, however these drugs work more slowly and also come with risk of suicidal thinking.
Behavioral therapies for people with ADHD can also help such as social skills training, psychotherapy, and behavioral therapy.
MeRT
Here at the Brain Treatment Center in Newport Beach, we offer MeRT for ADHD. This is a unique version of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), with a far more individualized approach to brain modulation. Treatment is tailored to the patient’s needs based on frequency, location, and power used. TMS modulates the brain’s electrical activity by using magnetic fields which pass through the scalp from an electromagnetic coil. This process is non-invasive and painless. Research studies and patients are showing that this type of treatment is promising for ADHD.*
MeRT stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy. It is a cutting edge treatment protocol which combines technologies of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS, an FDA cleared therapy), Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG), and Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) to analyze and formulate treatments that are tailored for each individual’s unique brain pattern.
Most TMS treatments are used to deliver stimulation to one area of the brain at a fixed frequency for all patients, however MeRT is more evolved. It is highly individualized as to frequency and location based on an initial thorough testing and evaluation. This customized, scientific approach is unique to each patient.
The patient’s initial testings are analyzed very carefully as to the brain’s pattern of function and activity. Through this detailed analysis we are able to determine the correct neural synchronization. This information is then used to devise a highly personalized protocol for each patient, with the purpose of encouraging improved brain communication. Patients have indicated that they have experienced significant clinical improvements.*
Treatment for ADHD usually lasts 4-8 weeks. Appointments are 30-45 minutes in length, Monday through Friday. Generally the patient will begin to notice improvements during the first week. Once treatment is completed, there is not usually a need for any follow up treatment for ADHD.*
While the neuromodulation equipment used in the MeRT has been cleared by the FDA in the treatment of depression that has been resistant to medications, it may also be used off label for other disorders in the practice of medicine. These include ADHD and other learning disorders.
The MeRT Process
MeRT is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive treatment.
MeRT (Magnetic E (EKG and EEG) Resonance Therapy is a treatment protocol that evolved from a technology called rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). However, rTMS is a more generalized approach because it is only able to target a single location in the brain with one frequency.
Studies have shown that brain wave oscillations are altered in patients suffering from conditions such as Major Depression Disorder (MDD), Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and more. MeRT treatment protocol uses a magnetic field to balance and stimulate brain function. The technology involves using very sophisticated diagnostics and imaging so that the treatment is customized for each individual and a personalized protocol is then tailored based on the location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet, specific to each person’s unique condition. MeRT is used to improve brain communication, synchronization, and can lead to significant and long-lasting improvements.
Much of the initial MeRT research has been done by the U.S. Department of Defense for veterans returning from combat. There is an article that was published in Defense One that further explains the DOD’s research and the benefits that MeRT has been shown to have on people suffering from TBI, PTSD, and MDD. Additional studies have been completed in the private sector on other conditions.
What to Expect
If you are interested in seeing if MeRT treatment is right for you, we will initially schedule two appointments, both of which are about 45 minutes in length.
At the first appointment, our neurotechnician will perform a qEEG and an EKG. These procedures are painless and involves the patient sitting in a chair until the test is completed. The results will then be compiled, and sent to our physician, Sandy Lee, M.D. and the clinical and scientific team at BTC for interpretation within 48 hours. At your second appointment, our clinician will have a one on one consultation with you to confirm that you or your child is a candidate for treatment, answer any additional questions that you may have, and schedule the assessment period for treatment. Our office manager, Cindy, will also meet with you to provide you with a brief orientation so that you are clear on expectations. If you are not local, she will also provide you with additional information about Newport Beach and things to do while you are here.
During the assessment period, treatment is administered every day, Monday through Thursday, followed by a repeat qEEG on Friday to see how you or your child are responding. If there is a positive response to treatment during the assessment period, you will have likely noticed some improvements starting to take place, and we will then schedule for the additional treatment duration.
A typical treatment session takes about 45 minutes. The patient will sit in a chair while the neurotechnician administers the treatment via a hand-held magnet that is held near the scalp. The magnetic impulses are delivered for 6-8 seconds each minute. There may be a slight sensation felt while the treatment is occurring, but it is not painful or uncomfortable.
Typically, after going through the assessment treatment period, MeRT treatment lasts anywhere from 4 – 8 weeks, however in some cases, additional treatment time is recommended for optimal results. Each individual is different, and protocols may vary. Your provider will have regularly scheduled follow-up EEGs and meet with you to gauge your progress.
Insurance Coverage
Our clinic does not accept insurance. We can provide you with the appropriate paperwork at the end of your treatment so that you can submit it to your insurance company to see if they would provide you with any reimbursement.
Currently, rTMS is FDA cleared for treatment of Depression and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.) Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off label” at this time, though we are hopeful that treatment for TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) will be FDA approved at some point in 2020. For non-FDA approved treatment, it is highly unlikely that any insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.
Some patients have reported that they have been able to receive some reimbursement for EEGs or clinical evaluations, depending on their health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage provides no reimbursement for MeRT.
Additional Payment Options
We take all major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Care Credit is also an option to assist in financing medical expenses. Care Credit is a separate company than The Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, and is a credit card that can be used to cover medical expenses and services. They typically offer zero-interest financing for 12 months.
Usually, when you go to the Care Credit website and apply, they will let you know if you are approved very promptly.
Starting as a New Patient
To get started, we will schedule an initial qEEG and then follow that with a consultation with one of our clinicians who can explain what the results show, and then we will proceed into the assessment period for treatment. During the assessment period, treatment is administered every day, Monday through Thursday, followed by a repeat qEEG on Friday to see how you or your child are responding. If there is a positive response to treatment during the assessment period, you will have likely noticed some improvements starting to take place, and we will then schedule for the additional treatment duration.
Typically, MeRT treatment lasts anywhere from 4 – 8 weeks, however in some cases, additional treatment is recommended for optimal results. Each individual is different, and protocols may vary. Your provider will have regularly scheduled follow-up EEGs and meet with you to gauge your progress.
Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for Additional Information
It’s normal for patients and their families who are affected by brain disorders to feel frustrated and isolated, and many have lost hope that there is any relief in sight. MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and feel passionate about living again. We understand what you are going through, and our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child.
Many of our clinicians and technicians have gone through MeRT treatment protocols themselves and have realized first hand what the treatment has done for them, and as a result, are passionate about helping others to heal too.
Our New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.
Call Our New Patient Coordinator or Fill in the Form below
(949) 851-3086
