Severe TBI from motor vehicle accident at age 16.

Shawn was referred for treatment 1 ½ years post motor vehicle accident because of problems in these areas: memory, concentration, task follow-through, and chronic pain in back, legs and arms

Physical trauma in the July 2002 accident consisted of right orbital (eye) blowout, right frontal and left basal skull fracture, one seizure, and a left sided stroke. He was in ICU for 3 weeks. Plastic surgeries included reconstruction of the cheek & eye area and rebuilding the nose.

The day after the first EEG neurofeedback treatment in December 2003, he had less leg pain enabling him to stand on that leg without pain, something he had not been able to do since the accident. After 3 months, following 6 EEG neurofeedback treatments and 5 sEMG sessions, his mother reported him being more interactive during bowling, with less impulsivity and they were seeing subtle improvements in memory and concentration. As of the end of December Shawn reported that his back pain was so much lower that he was able to walk around the mall for 4 hours. His father said the difference from the previous Christmas was “phenomenal”.

After 5 months, 12 EEG neurofeedback treatments and 11 sEMG sessions, Shawn has shown significant improvement in motivation and organization as evidenced by purchasing his own day planner, and using it daily. He was playing his musical instrument more, and completing video games instead of stopping mid-game. According to parents his behavior is more age-appropriate and he is taking constructive criticism better. Memory is still a problem in some areas as evidenced by Shawn easily forgetting subjects discussed in session or homework exercises he has been shown. Arm pain has also declined despite increased time spent playing drums.

Treatment was being phased out after 17 EEG neurofeedback treatments over 17 months. His job requires being on his feet a lot causing foot pain. He has no arm pain at all despite increased use of his arms. He can get upset quickly but is not explosive and is being more independent with chores. He is working 3 days a week.

At the beginning of treatment he was on 1800 mg Neurontin twice a day. In May the dose was cut to 900mg because of less leg pain.

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