Brainwave entrainment, particularly through Audio-Visual Stimulation (AVS), is gaining attention as a promising method for improving sleep quality. A recent pilot randomized controlled trial by Tang et al. (2021) explored the effectiveness of a 30-minute AVS program in promoting sleep among older adults with comorbid insomnia and osteoarthritis pain.
In this study, 30 participants, both male and female, with an average age of 66 to 68, were divided into groups to either use the active AVS program or a placebo control. The active AVS program involved a 30-minute session using pulsing lights (via goggles) and pulsing binaural sounds (via headphones). The AVS protocol started with stimulation from 10 to 6 Hz during the first 3 minutes, followed by 6 to 3 Hz from minutes 4 to 28, and finally 3 to 2 Hz from minutes 29 to 30. This protocol was previously shown to induce significant delta wave activity compared to a placebo.
After two weeks of self-administering the AVS program, participants reported improvements in sleep, pain, and depression. These findings suggest that the 30-minute AVS program can significantly enhance sleep quality in older adults dealing with osteoarthritis pain and sleep onset insomnia.
Several advantages make this intervention particularly appealing. The short 30-minute nightly sessions, its non-pharmacological nature, and its ease of use make it highly acceptable to users. Participants adhered well to the protocol, found the AVS device easy to use, and expressed a willingness to continue using it.
The study also highlighted areas for future research. It suggested focusing on individuals with sleep onset insomnia, as they are likely to benefit the most from AVS. Additionally, extending the training period beyond two weeks might enhance the sleep improvements observed. Finally, comparing AVS light protocols with and without blue light against a placebo could help clarify the role of blue light in AVS treatment for insomnia.
In summary, brainwave entrainment through AVS shows great potential as a non-invasive, user-friendly method to improve sleep quality, especially for those with chronic pain conditions. With further research, this innovative approach could become a widely accepted tool for managing sleep disorders.
