title: 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.
authors: Health Science Center, School of Nursing, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 357263, Seattle, WA, 98195-7263, USA. jeantang@u.washington.edu.
authors: Hsin-Yi Jean
authors: HY
authors: Tang
authors: Edith Clemmer Steinbright Chair of Gerontology, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19106, USA.
authors: Barbara
authors: B
authors: Riegel
authors: School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
authors: Susan M
authors: SM
authors: McCurry
authors: Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
authors: Michael V
authors: MV
authors: Vitiello
mesh_terms: D000161:Acoustic Stimulation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D058765:Neurofeedback / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D010775:Photic Stimulation / Q000379:methods*; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000628:therapy*
keywords: Audio visual stimulation (AVS); Brainwave entrainment; Insomnia; Neurofeedback; Pain; Sleep