Prinsloo Laboratory
Sarah Prinsloo, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine Department of Neurosurgery
Areas of Research
- Palliative Care
- Pain
The Prinsloo Laboratory focuses on applied neuroscience, particularly the use of electroencephalographic (EEG) neuroimaging and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, including both neurofeedback (NFB) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Current research includes the determination of central nervous system effects of chemotherapy, the effects of neuromodulatory techniques on pain conditions such as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and the effects of rTMS on motor rehabilitation following tumor resection
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What is Neuromodulation?
Neuromodulation refers to techniques which alter the brain’s
functioning. Signals in the brain are transmitted both electrically
(along the neuron) and chemically (across the synapse). The rhythmic
electrical signals of neurons are referred to as brainwaves and are
classified by frequency bands. Neuromodulatory techniques can
influence and alter brainwave activity in targeted ways, resulting in
improved function and symptom relief.
Neurofeedback
During NFB, participants’ brain waves are monitored and a
visual reward (often a picture appearing on a screen accompanied by an
auditory tone) is given when brain waves begin to normalize. This
process is a form of operant conditioning which leads to changes in
participants’ resting brain wave states. NFB sessions typically last
30-45 minutes and are often repeated several times per week.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) refers to electromagnetic pulses which can be used to stimulate the brain’s cortex, allowing for increased understanding of cortical functions. rTMS involves pulsing magnetic stimulation repeatedly at a specific target area on the cortex. Effects of rTMS can be modulated by changes in intensity and frequency of the stimulation as well as the targeted location.