Open-Loop Audio-Visual Stimulation (AVS): A Useful Tool for Management of Insomnia?

Abstract

Audio Visual Stimulation (AVS), a form of neurofeedback, is a non-pharmacological intervention that has been used for both performance enhancement and symptom management. We review the history of AVS, its two sub-types (close- and open-loop), and discuss its clinical implications. We also describe a promising new application of AVS to improve sleep, and potentially decrease pain. AVS research can be traced back to the late 1800s. AVS's efficacy has been demonstrated for both performance enhancement and symptom management. Although AVS is commonly used in clinical settings, there is limited literature evaluating clinical outcomes and mechanisms of action. One of the challenges to AVS research is the lack of standardized terms, which makes systematic review and literature consolidation difficult. Future studies using AVS as an intervention should; (1) use operational definitions that are consistent with the existing literature, such as AVS, Audio-visual Entrainment, or Light and Sound Stimulation, (2) provide a clear rationale for the chosen training frequency modality, (3) use a randomized controlled design, and (4) follow the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials and/or related guidelines when disseminating results.

Effects of repetitive SSVEPs on EEG complexity using multiscale inherent fuzzy entropy

“…The effects of these messages are not only limited to the occipital region but are also seen in the frontal regions [1]. Clinical studies have reported that visual stimuli are effective in inducing relaxation, reducing stress, and relieving insomnia [2,3].…”

Non Invasive Brain Stimulation Technique – An Area Needs to Be Explored

“…At present, various noninvasive electrical brain stimulation methods have been introduced by commercial providers and now been used by elite sports coaches, that are helping in improving the mental abilities, cognitive functions, balance and also assisting in dealing with the stress 4 . In general, neuromodulation of the human brain can be achieved noninvasively by delivering magnetic, electric and auditory and visual bursts of pulses 5 to predefined cortical regions. So far, there is little empirical evidence for the efficacy of brain-stimulation techniques on enhancement of sports-specific performance 6 .…”

Mechanosensory stimulation viaNanchungexpressing neurons can induce daytime sleep inDrosophila

“…In addition to the conventional prescription of somnolence-inducing drugs, non-pharmacological aids using cognitive behavioural therapy, which includes, relaxation techniques that can reduce hyperarousal in patients, have been used to treat insomnia (Siebern et al, 2012). Additionally, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) (Massimini et al, 2007), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) (Marshall et al, 2006; Reato et al, 2013), open-loop audio-visual stimulation (AVS) (Tang et al, 2016), acoustic stimulation (Bellesi et al, 2014) have been shown to aid sleep in mammals. Although it is common knowledge that babies in cradles, adults in rocking chairs and passengers in moving vehicles, fall asleep readily, yet, the mechanisms underlying motion-induced sleep remain unclear.…”