Evaluation of the Effect of Neurofeedback on Polysomnographic Changes and Improvement in the Life Quality of People with HIV with Sleep Disorders: A Clinical Trial Study

Abstract

Introduction Sleep disorders are considered as one of the most common illnesses among people with HIV. Due to this, using neurofeedback devices to alter brain waves is implemented as a complementary therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of neurofeedback on changes in interrupted sleep, duration of sleep, restless legs syndrome, and improve the quality of life in people with HIV with sleep difficulties. Methods The current study is a clinical trial and applied type of research in which the pre-test and post-test of two interventional and placebo groups were compared. The statistical population of all patients referred to the HIV Research Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex was selected randomly. In this respect, 15 volunteer patients (9 volunteers in the treatment group and 6 volunteers in the placebo group) were chosen and placed into groups via random sampling. In addition, the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used for the evaluation of sleep quality. Data were analyzed after statistical analysis through standard tests. Results The results of this study showed that neurofeedback was able to cause significant changes in reducing stress levels. This treatment was able to improve the quality of life indicators in participants. Also, there were changes in polysomnographic data; however, they were not significant. Conclusion Based on these data, Neurofeedback therapy could be considered a complementary therapy to improve sleep disorders in people with HIV.Moreover, this treatment was able to improve the quality of life and stress indicators in these patients by improving brain waves. Clinical Trial Registration No IR.TUMS.VCR.REC.1398.998.