FAQs – Other Neurological Conditions

Some common questions you might have about the Montreal Neurotherapy Center.

Do you use Transcranial Magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for stroke, Parkinson’s or TBI?

A course of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) delivered over the supplementary motor area (SMA) improves motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), shows results from a randomized controlled trial. We may use this technique to help patients with tremor.

The rationale of using rTMS as a complementary therapy is mainly to decrease the cortical excitability in regions that are presumed to hinder optimal recovery by low-frequency rTMS delivered to the unaffected hemisphere, while high-frequency rTMS delivered to the affected hemisphere facilitates cortical excitability. However, the exact mechanisms of how rTMS works are still under investigation.

In some cases we may use this technology.

We have collaborated in a study done at MUHC with Dr Kolivakis and Dr Ptito as investigators To assess the effects of rTMS over the left Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on mood and cognitive symptoms in patients with Minor Brain Injury (mTBI) and Post Concussion Syndromes (PCS) and patients with Major Depressive Disorders (MDD) without TBI.
Results have been very encouraging in symptoms reduction such as Head aches, cognitive functions and mood regulation.

We use this technology for this condition when indicated.

What is your experience with Multiple Sclerosis?

By the time a diagnosis is made, you may already be experiencing symptoms of the disease. People with MS need to learn how to support their bodies, avoid exacerbating symptoms, and use mobility aids. Like many people with MS, pharmacological therapy alone is not able to address your particular symptoms adequately. At The Montreal Neurotherapy Center, When you have multiple sclerosis (MS), we help you with the physical and cognitive challenges.

Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation will include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive retraining to help reduce these disabilities.

Is Neurofeedback useful for Post-Stroke recovery?

The field of neurofeedback is an exciting new area of application of the principles of biofeedback to stroke rehabilitation. Biofeedback in general can have a very positive impact, even through indirect means for patients recovering from stroke. Improvements in self confidence, shifting of focus of control, and instantly being provided information regarding changes in one’s physical functioning as a result of mental activity can be helpful in setting the tone for success in rehabilitation.

It is used in reeducation in individuals with hemiparesis. In regard to cognitive rehabilitation, the emerging field of EEG biofeedback, or neurofeedback, is a promise for the rehabilitation of attention, language processing, working memory, and even motor coordination. We always use Neurofeedback with our stroke patients.

What are the other Functional Neurological Conditions you treat?

We have experience with many illnesses witch target the nervous system, affecting mobility, speech and skill and where rehabilitation plays a key role in providing treatment and improving symptoms.

Some of the most frequent are:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Stroke (CVA)
  • Tumor
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Vestibular disorders such as BPPV, acoustic neuroma, or other conditions that cause dizziness and loss of balance
  • What services do you provide for these conditions ?

We use:

  • Physical therapy for increased strength and mobility
  • Occupational therapy for improved everyday living skills
  • Speech and language therapy for improved communication
  • Neurofeedback to improve cognitive skills
  • Non invasive Neuromodulation to help the Brain create new connections