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Neurofeedback Impact on Veterans With mTBI

Neurofeedback Impact on Chronic Headache, Sleep and Attention Disorders Experienced by Veterans With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Status
Completed
Phases
NA
Study type
Interventional
Source
ClinicalTrials.gov
Registry ID
NCT04195685
Acronym
NFBVETmTBI
Enrollment
87
Registered
2019-12-12
Start date
2021-03-16
Completion date
2025-02-10
Last updated
2025-10-30

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

Chronic Attention Disorder, Chronic Headache, Chronic Insomnia, Concussion, mTBI, Post-Concussive Symptoms

Keywords

Neurofeedback, Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback, Veterans, Integrative Health Treatment, mTBI, Concussion, Post-concussive Symptoms, Chronic Headaches, Chronic Insomnia, Chronic Attention Disorder, Quality of Life, Emotional Responses, PTSD, Depression

Brief summary

This study will evaluate neurofeedback (NFB) training as a low risk, non-invasive, effective treatment for Veterans diagnosed with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and experiencing chronic post-concussive symptoms (PCSs). Participants will be randomized into the intervention or control group. Groups will be compared on primary measures of headache, insomnia and attention. Other outcomes of interest include post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, quality of life and other measures of well-being.

Detailed description

This study will evaluate neurofeedback (NFB) training as a low risk, non-invasive, effective treatment for Veterans diagnosed with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and experiencing chronic post-concussive symptoms (PCSs). Participants will be randomized into the intervention or control group. Groups will be compared on primary measures of headache, insomnia and attention. Other outcomes of interest include post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, quality of life and other measures of well-being. Both the intervention and control group will participate in four assessment sessions. The assessment sessions will occur at the beginning of the study, at 4-6 weeks, at 8-10 weeks, and 2-months later. Participation in this research will last about 4 months. Those in the control group will be offered neurofeedback treatment, extending their participation time by 4 months (8 months total participation).

Interventions

PROCEDURENeurofeedback (NFB)

Participants are seated in a comfortable chair and have common EEG electrodes with a pre-application of EEG adhesion conductive paste placed on scalp. The participant will receive coaching as they look at the game training screen and focus on the image. The game training screen provides almost instantaneous feedback (within 200 milliseconds) to participants about brain functioning. Twenty, one-hour, NFB training sessions will be provided by a trained NFB specialist over an 8-10-week period with up to 5-sessions but usually 3 sessions a week. The specific NFB special use system that will be used is the Cygnet NFB System from Bee Medic Corporation. The latest technological advances in this system has enabled training frequencies in the infra-low frequency range as well as in all other relevant frequency ranges which is a breakthrough capacity not available on any other NFB system. This will enable the individualized training to the person's brain training preference.

Sponsors

VA Office of Research and Development
Lead SponsorFED

Study design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE

Intervention model description

The proposed study is a randomized controlled clinical trial using Neurofeedback (NFB) as the study intervention. The control group members will continue with their usual care and will receive a 15-minute phone call from an Investigator on a weekly basis to briefly discuss one of eight possible health topics (sleep hygiene, basic nutritional concepts, beverage choices, positive thinking, thought reframing, fitness, daily calming activity, and enhancement of focus strategies) that the treatment group would receive as a normal part of their NFB session. At the end of the Control group activities, the participant will enter the delayed intervention group. Twenty, one-hour, NFB training sessions will be provided to each participant in the intervention group by a trained NFB specialist over an 8-10-week period (up to 5-sessions but usually 3 sessions a week).

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

* Male and non-pregnant female OEF-OIF-OND Veterans diagnosed with mTBI ages 18 to 65 * Complaints of chronic headaches, insomnia, and attention difficulties * Able to read and write English * Able to comprehend what they read * Able to follow directions

Exclusion criteria

* Pregnant female Veteran * Non OEF-OIF-OND Veteran who is diagnosed with mTBI * Under the age of 18 or over the age of 65 * Severe TBI * Impaired decision-making capacity * Unable to comply with study visit schedule * Suicide Intent as indicated by a positive response to questions 3, 4, 5, or 8 on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) secondary screen

Design outcomes

Primary

MeasureTime frameDescription
NEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short FormChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDeveloped as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of positive attitude and sense of well-being (9 items, 5 min). Score range: 9-45. Higher score better outcome.
QIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy IndexChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upComputerized visual performance test to assess attention and impulse control, speed and consistency of response. Specifically intended for use by neurofeedback clinicians. (21 min). Higher scores indicate better performance. Score range: 165-420.
Quality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upA 37-item instrument consisting of 6 scales measuring cognition, self, daily life and autonomy, social relationships, emotions, and physical problems. Designed to measure quality of life specific for TBI. (37 items, 15 min). Score range: 0-100. Higher score suggests better outcome.
NEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short FormChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDeveloped as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of satisfaction with life roles and activities. (10 items, 5 min). Score range: 8-40. Higher score suggests better outcome.
NEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short FormChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDeveloped as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of ability to do life roles and activities. (10 items, 5 min). Score range 8-40. Higher score suggests better outcome.
Headache Impact Test (HIT-6)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upThe HIT-6 is a 6-question tool designed to describe and communicate the way people feel and what they cannot do because of their headache. (6 questions, 3 min) Scores vary from 36 - 78. Higher score worse outcome.
NEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short FormChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDeveloped as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to the nature and response to headaches. (10 items, 5 minutes). Score range 10-50. Higher scores suggest worse outcome.
Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upSeven question self-report instrument used to quantify perceived current insomnia. Targets past week's symptoms and daytime consequences consistent with DSM-IV criteria. (7 items, 5 min) Scores vary from 0 - 28. Higher score worse outcome.
NEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short FormChange from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDeveloped as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 8 questions related to the sleep experience and impact. (8 items, 5 minutes). Score range: 8-40. Higher scores suggest worse outcome.

Secondary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upDASS21 is a set of three self-report scales designed to measure the negative emotional states of depression, anxiety and stress. Can be used as a single assessment of psychological distress (21 items, 10 min). Score varies from 0 - 63. Higher score suggests worse outcome.
Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upPHQ-9 is a nine-item depression self-report module from the full Patient Health Questionnaire. Scores range from 0-27. (9 items, 2-5 min) Score varies from 0-27. Higher score suggests worse outcome.
General Symptom Inventory (GSI)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upSelf-report instrument of symptoms in 7 categories including sleep, attention and learning, sensory, behavioral, emotional, physical, and pain (less than 10 min). Score varies from 0-464. Higher score suggests worse outcome.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-upThe PCL-5 is a 20-item questionnaire, corresponding to the DSM-5 symptom criteria for PTSD. The wording of PCL-5 items reflects both changes to existing symptoms and the addition of new symptoms in DSM-5. (20 items, 5-10 min) Score varies from 0-80. Higher score suggests worse outcome.

Countries

United States

Participant flow

Participants by arm

ArmCount
NFB Intervention
The NFB system will read and interpret a participant's brain wave pattern which will be instantaneously fed back to the participant providing information, to which a participant can respond accordingly. The NFB specialist assumes a coaching role with people training on the NFB special use system to assist in the achievement of a focused relaxed state, which enhances the overall brain functioning. The significance and unique aspect of NFB is the direct impact on physiological dysregulation, which is the basis of this treatment approach. Twenty, one-hour, NFB training sessions will be provided to each participant in the intervention group and Delayed intervention group (those participants who completed the Control Group activities) by a trained NFB specialist over an 8-10-week period. Participants in the intervention group will receive up to 5-sessions but usually 3 sessions a week Neurofeedback (NFB): Participants are seated in a comfortable chair and have common EEG electrodes with a pre-application of EEG adhesion conductive paste placed on scalp. The participant will receive coaching as they look at the game training screen and focus on the image. The game training screen provides almost instantaneous feedback (within 200 milliseconds) to participants about brain functioning. The Cygnet NFB System will be used, which enables training frequencies in the infra-low frequency range. This will enable the individualized training to the person's brain training preference.
43
Control Group
Participants in the control group will continue with their usual treatment and will receive a 15-minute call once a week for eight weeks from an Investigator on a health topic. This will help to keep members of the control group engaged in the project and receive the same information that is offered to the intervention group members. The health topics that are generally discussed during NFB sessions include sleep hygiene, basic nutritional concepts, beverage choices, positive thinking, thought reframing, fitness, daily calming activity, and enhancement of focus strategies.
44
Total87

Withdrawals & dropouts

PeriodReasonFG000FG001
Overall StudyLost to Follow-up14
Overall StudyWithdrawal by Subject62

Baseline characteristics

CharacteristicNFB InterventionControl GroupTotal
Age, Continuous45.8 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.7
45.0 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.4
45.4 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.1
Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS21)24.2 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 15.3
23.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 12.4
24.1 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 13.9
General Symptom Scale (GSI)166.6 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 83.7
156.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 54
161.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 68.9
Headache Impact Tool (HIT-6)61.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.8
62.8 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.6
62.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.2
Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)19.4 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 4.6
18.5 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.6
19.0 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.1
NEUROQOLTBI Ability to participate in social roles and activities25.0 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.8
24.4 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.7
24.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.3
NEUROQOLTBI Headache Tool32.0 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 10.9
31.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.5
31.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 9.7
NEUROQOLTBI Positive affect and wellbeing29.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.2
29.8 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.8
29.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7
NEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction with roles and activities23.1 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.4
21.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.1
22.5 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.8
NEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance25.8 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.7
26.0 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6
25.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.4
Patient Health Questionnaire-Depression (PHQ9)14.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.6
14.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 5.7
14.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.2
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)40.7 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 20.4
40.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 18.7
40.8 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 19.6
QIK test accuracy index232.9 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 39
241.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 44.9
237.1 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 42
Quality of Life after Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)46.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.3
46.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.2
46.3 score on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.3
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
African/Black
4 Participants8 Participants12 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
Asian
4 Participants5 Participants9 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
European/Caucasian
12 Participants10 Participants22 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
3 Participants1 Participants4 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
Hispanic
9 Participants3 Participants12 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
More than one ethnicity
10 Participants15 Participants25 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
Native American
1 Participants0 Participants1 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Self-identified ethnicity
Refused/Unknown
0 Participants2 Participants2 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Female
6 Participants8 Participants14 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Male
37 Participants36 Participants73 Participants

Adverse events

Event typeEG000
affected / at risk
EG001
affected / at risk
deaths
Total, all-cause mortality
0 / 430 / 44
other
Total, other adverse events
3 / 4312 / 44
serious
Total, serious adverse events
1 / 431 / 44

Outcome results

Primary

Headache Impact Test (HIT-6)

The HIT-6 is a 6-question tool designed to describe and communicate the way people feel and what they cannot do because of their headache. (6 questions, 3 min) Scores vary from 36 - 78. Higher score worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)Mid-treatment53.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.8
NFB InterventionHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)Post-treatment49.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 10.4
NFB InterventionHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)2-month follow-up52.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.5
Control GroupHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)Mid-treatment61.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.6
Control GroupHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)Post-treatment60.9 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.4
Control GroupHeadache Impact Test (HIT-6)2-month follow-up62.6 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.7
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [7, 14.4]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)

Seven question self-report instrument used to quantify perceived current insomnia. Targets past week's symptoms and daytime consequences consistent with DSM-IV criteria. (7 items, 5 min) Scores vary from 0 - 28. Higher score worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)Mid-treatment11.5 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.1
NFB InterventionInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)Post-treatment7.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.3
NFB InterventionInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)2-month follow-up10.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.9
Control GroupInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)Mid-treatment17.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.2
Control GroupInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)Post-treatment17.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.3
Control GroupInsomnia Severity Index (ISI)2-month follow-up17.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [7.4, 13.2]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

NEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short Form

Developed as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of ability to do life roles and activities. (10 items, 5 min). Score range 8-40. Higher score suggests better outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short FormMid-treatment29.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.3
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short FormPost-treatment31.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.2
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short Form2-month follow-up29.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.4
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short FormMid-treatment24.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 5.8
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short FormPost-treatment24.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.7
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities Short Form2-month follow-up24.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.6
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [-9, -3.4]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

NEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short Form

Developed as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to the nature and response to headaches. (10 items, 5 minutes). Score range 10-50. Higher scores suggest worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short FormMid-treatment21.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.3
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short FormPost-treatment18.9 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.2
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short Form2-month follow-up23.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 13
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short FormMid-treatment28.5 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 10.2
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short FormPost-treatment28.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.6
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Headache Pain Short Form2-month follow-up32.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.3
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [4.9, 14]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

NEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short Form

Developed as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of positive attitude and sense of well-being (9 items, 5 min). Score range: 9-45. Higher score better outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short FormMid-treatment33.5 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.3
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short FormPost-treatment35.5 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.2
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short Form2-month follow-up34.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.5
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short FormMid-treatment30.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.8
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short FormPost-treatment31.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Positive Affect and Well-being-short Form2-month follow-up30.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.1
p-value: 0.003395% CI: [-7.4, -1.5]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

NEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short Form

Developed as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 10 questions related to level of satisfaction with life roles and activities. (10 items, 5 min). Score range: 8-40. Higher score suggests better outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short FormMid-treatment33.5 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.6
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short FormPost-treatment35.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.7
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short Form2-month follow-up34.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.5
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short FormMid-treatment30.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.8
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short FormPost-treatment31.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.6
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Satisfaction With Social Roles and Activities Short Form2-month follow-up30.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.5
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: 0.000295% CI: [-11.1, -3.4]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

NEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short Form

Developed as part of NIH Toolbox NEUROQOL TBI. It is comprised of 8 questions related to the sleep experience and impact. (8 items, 5 minutes). Score range: 8-40. Higher scores suggest worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short Form2-month follow-up28.6 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.9
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short FormMid-treatment29.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.1
NFB InterventionNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short FormPost-treatment31.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.9
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short FormPost-treatment22.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short FormMid-treatment22.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.3
Control GroupNEUROQOLTBI Sleep Disturbance Short Form2-month follow-up22.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.8
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [4.2, 10.6]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

QIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy Index

Computerized visual performance test to assess attention and impulse control, speed and consistency of response. Specifically intended for use by neurofeedback clinicians. (21 min). Higher scores indicate better performance. Score range: 165-420.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy IndexMid-treatment252.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 41.9
NFB InterventionQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy IndexPost-treatment271.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 60.8
NFB InterventionQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy Index2-month follow-up254.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 48.4
Control GroupQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy IndexMid-treatment241.6 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 50.1
Control GroupQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy IndexPost-treatment247.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 58.7
Control GroupQIKtest Continuous Performance Test - Accuracy Index2-month follow-up256.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 56.8
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: 0.002295% CI: [-53.3, -11.7]t-test, 2 sided
Primary

Quality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)

A 37-item instrument consisting of 6 scales measuring cognition, self, daily life and autonomy, social relationships, emotions, and physical problems. Designed to measure quality of life specific for TBI. (37 items, 15 min). Score range: 0-100. Higher score suggests better outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)Mid-treatment127.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 32.6
NFB InterventionQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)Post-treatment139.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 36.3
NFB InterventionQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)2-month follow-up133.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 38.8
Control GroupQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)Mid-treatment106.8 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 27.4
Control GroupQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)Post-treatment107.6 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 31
Control GroupQuality of Life After Brain Injury (QOLIBRI)2-month follow-up108.6 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 30.3
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [-45, -19.4]t-test, 2 sided
Secondary

Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)

DASS21 is a set of three self-report scales designed to measure the negative emotional states of depression, anxiety and stress. Can be used as a single assessment of psychological distress (21 items, 10 min). Score varies from 0 - 63. Higher score suggests worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)Mid-treatment12.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.6
NFB InterventionDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)Post-treatment10.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 12.7
NFB InterventionDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)2-month follow-up13.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 13.9
Control GroupDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)Mid-treatment20.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 12.4
Control GroupDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)Post-treatment19.9 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 13.4
Control GroupDepression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS21)2-month follow-up23.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 13.6
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: 0.000595% CI: [4.4, 15.6]t-test, 2 sided
Secondary

General Symptom Inventory (GSI)

Self-report instrument of symptoms in 7 categories including sleep, attention and learning, sensory, behavioral, emotional, physical, and pain (less than 10 min). Score varies from 0-464. Higher score suggests worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)Mid-treatment108.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 75.9
NFB InterventionGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)Post-treatment81.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 90.2
NFB InterventionGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)2-month follow-up103.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 97.9
Control GroupGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)Mid-treatment151.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 61
Control GroupGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)Post-treatment139.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 73.4
Control GroupGeneral Symptom Inventory (GSI)2-month follow-up150.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 72.9
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [36.9, 99.2]t-test, 2 sided
Secondary

Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

PHQ-9 is a nine-item depression self-report module from the full Patient Health Questionnaire. Scores range from 0-27. (9 items, 2-5 min) Score varies from 0-27. Higher score suggests worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)Mid-treatment8.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.8
NFB InterventionPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)Post-treatment5.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.2
NFB InterventionPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)2-month follow-up7.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.5
Control GroupPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)Mid-treatment12.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.2
Control GroupPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)Post-treatment12.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.7
Control GroupPatient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)2-month follow-up13.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: <0.000195% CI: [3.5, 9.2]t-test, 2 sided
Secondary

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)

The PCL-5 is a 20-item questionnaire, corresponding to the DSM-5 symptom criteria for PTSD. The wording of PCL-5 items reflects both changes to existing symptoms and the addition of new symptoms in DSM-5. (20 items, 5-10 min) Score varies from 0-80. Higher score suggests worse outcome.

Time frame: Change from baseline midtreatment at 4-6 weeks, change from baseline endpoint at 8-10 weeks, and change from baseline at 2 month follow-up

Population: Primary analyses were intention to treat, which included all participants assigned to either group. Missing data were addressed using a multiple imputation approach.

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
NFB InterventionPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)Mid-treatment25.4 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 19.3
NFB InterventionPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)Post-treatment19.3 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 20.2
NFB InterventionPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)2-follow follow-up23.0 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 21
Control GroupPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)Mid-treatment35.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 17.5
Control GroupPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)Post-treatment33.7 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 19.1
Control GroupPosttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5)2-follow follow-up37.1 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 20.3
Comparison: The primary endpoint was evaluated by assessing the change in severity scores from baseline to the end of treatment, comparing the NFB and control groups. A two-sample t-test was used to test the mean change in severity scores between treatment arms. Statistical tests were two-sided with a 5% significance level (Type I error rate).p-value: 0.000195% CI: [7.1, 21.4]t-test, 2 sided

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · Data processed: Feb 4, 2026