Neurofeedback during acute pain using real-time functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rtfMRI)

Real-time functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rtfMRI) is a tool for neurofeedback research and treatment. Based on the principles of classical biofeedback this method provides the opportunity to manipulate cortical regions of interest (ROIs) by cognitive strategies. Since it is possible to manipulate the anterior insular cortex (aIC) by rtfMRI, we are interested in the effects of downregulation of aIC activation during pain. Nine participants (5m, 4f, 25±3.0 yrs) received a functional localizer characterized by alternating blocks of pain stimulation (30 s heat pain stimulation via a thermode placed at the low…