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.