The human brain contains approximately 100 billion neurons. Through electrical oscillations, or brain waves, the neurons control how the brain functions. Whenever there are forces, either internal or external, that disrupt normal brain wave activity, dysfunction can occur and manifest itself in a number of ways, including:
- Trauma to the head such as a concussion or traumatic brain injury
- Emotional trauma or high amounts of chronic or acute stress, PTSD
- Major Depression Disorder
- Illness or disease such as stroke and Parkinson’s Disease
- Drug or alcohol addiction
- Learning disorders
- Developmental disorders such as autism, ADD, ADHD
- Dementia
- Multiple sports injuries (head hits)
- Anxiety
- Sleeping disorders
- Congenital issues
Disorders like these can cause brain dysfunction which can range from mild to severe. Some people can still function in their day to day activities, while others are completely debilitated and have no quality of life.
Peak Neuro Performance can identify exactly where the brain waves are not communicating properly and help to restore proper function. MeRT technology can reshape the activity in the brain, regardless of what caused the dysfunction.
What is MeRT and How Does it Work?
MeRT, or Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy is a cutting-edge treatment protocol that uses the combined technologies of rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), qEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram, EKG (Electrocardiogram) to build treatment protocols that are tailored to each person’s unique brain wave patterns.
However, rTMS therapy works by delivering magnetic stimulation at a single fixed frequency for all patients, like a blanket approach for everyone. Conversely, MeRT treatment is tailors both the frequency and the location based on each person’s unique qEEG and EKG.
MeRT uses a proprietary brain wave analysis to identify the exact areas in the brain that are not functioning properly or communicating the way that they should be. Our physicians then use this information to develop a personalized and targeted approach designed to restore healthy brain communication. This therapy gently stimulates the specific locations in the brain which can lead to improved function.
MeRT is non-surgical, non-invasive, and non-pharmaceutical. In simpler terms, it’s used to reprogram dysfunctional electrical signals in the brain to modify behavior and restore function.
Mini Documentary Explains How MeRT Treatment Works:
The Four Steps to MeRT
Evaluation
First, we will perform a q-EEG and an EKG. These diagnostic tests are used to determine the frequencies in the brain and the brain-heart coherence. Once this has been done, our scientists and physicians will interpret and analyze the results to determine the exact function of the brain.
Analysis and Protocol
We use a scientific and patented approach with the data gathered from testing to develop a tailored treatment plan for each individual with the goal of restoring function and brain communication.
MeRT Treatment
Once your treatment protocols are in place, you will come to therapy, 5 days a week, in two-week intervals. All that is needed from you is to sit in a comfortable chair while a highly-trained neuro-technician places a magnetic coil on your head. This device produces a low-frequency magnetic field to induce mild electrical signals in the targeted areas of the brain. Time spent in the chair is typically 30-minutes. The stimulation occurs for 6-8 seconds every minute. You will be required to close your eyes during the 6-8 second periods that the magnet is being used.
Progress Evaluation
An additional qEEG and EKG will be performed after two weeks of treatment to allow us to track your progress and make any needed modifications. We also monitor your progress throughout your daily treatments to confirm how you are feeling and to track improvements in the way that you are feeling.
To achieve optimal success results from MeRT, most conditions require 6-8 weeks of treatment.
Results are based on strict compliance with our treatment regimens. Results may vary based on each individual and are not guaranteed. Currently, MeRT is FDA approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder. Treatment for all other conditions is considered “off label” at this time, although we do anticipate FDA approval soon for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
There have been numerous studies that have shown the effectiveness of MeRT treatment on various conditions and research continues to be ongoing.
Common Benefits of MeRT Treatment Can Include:
- Improved sleep
- Relaxation, and better mood
- Better able to concentrate and focus
- Improved mental clarity
- Improved memory
- Better ability to cope with stressors
- Improved social skills
- Increased motivation
- Fewer cravings for drugs and/or alcohol
- Better ability to adapt to change
- Less anxiety
- Improved ability to interact with others
- Improved confidence
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 your first appointment, our neuro-technician 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 and the clinical and scientific team at BTC for interpretation within 48 hours.
At the 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 treatment.
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. The patient is fully awake and no medications are used.
MeRT treatments are usually anywhere from 6 – 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 and Payment Options
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 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 cleared at some point in the next couple of years.
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. For non-FDA approved treatment, it is highly unlikely that any insurance will provide reimbursement for our protocols.
We take all major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Contact Our New Patient Coordinator for more 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 firsthand 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 to Learn More
(720) 586-4067
Or fill in the form below and we will contact you.
MeRT Treatment Protocol Featured on “Broken Brain” Podcast
Mark Hyman, M.D. is an esteemed functional medicine physician and best-selling author. He founded the Cleveland Clinic Functional Medicine Clinic and created an ongoing podcast called “The Broken Brain.” This podcast focuses on all sorts of different things that affect brain and overall health, from diet to sleep, to therapy.
MeRT was featured on one of his podcasts as an exciting new treatment for patients suffering from traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major depressive disorder.
Dr. Erik Won, president of The Brain Treatment Center, was interviewed and spoke extensively about the origins of MeRT technologies, and how it has been used to treat veterans who have suffered these types of conditions after returning from war. The Department of Defense completed extensive studies on how MeRT treatment has been able to help these people, and Dr. Won talks about the many successes that have been realized in this podcast. Click here to watch this amazing podcast!
MeRT Treatment Featured on “The Doctors” TV Show for Autism Treatment
Many children with Autism have experienced some miraculous results in their overall function after going through MeRT treatment.** “The Doctors” interviewed neurologist, Spencer O. Miller, MD who has been utilizing this treatment, and some moms of kids with Autism give their testimonials as well! Click here to watch this episode!