Effect of Neurofeedback Training and Swimming Exercise on the Electroencephalographic Changes and Craving in Methamphetamine-dependent Patients.

Introduction: In this study, we investigated whether neurofeedback (NFB) training and swimming exercise would decrease the electroencephalographic (EEG) changes and visual image-induced craving in methamphetamine (METH)-dependent patients.

Methods: This research was a randomized controlled trial. A total of 32 METH-dependent patients were allocated randomly to four groups: Control, NFB, swim, and NFB/swim. The EEG and visual image-induced craving were recorded before and after the intervention in all four groups.

Results: The NFB, swim, and NFB/swim groups showed significantly lower absolute power for 4 frequency bands. Also, the swim and NFB/swim groups had less and greater relative power in the alpha and delta bands, respectively. In addition, the NFB/swim group exhibited an increase in delta/alpha power ratio compared to the control and the NFB groups. Also, the NFB/swim group showed a significant reduction in visual image-induced craving score compared to the control, swim, and NFB groups.

Conclusion: This study provides novel evidence that combined NFB training and swimming exercise during METH abstinence was effective in normalizing METH-induced EEG changes, which may help patients manage their cravings.