Neurofeedback Considerations for a Child with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia and Bilateral Cochlear Implants

Cynthia Wilson

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May 26, 2026, 11:06:43 PMMay 26

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Dear Colleagues,

I am writing to gain insight regarding a potential case and would greatly appreciate any information or feedback from those with relevant experience.

I currently work with two adopted brothers from Vietnam and have been approached by their family regarding a third adopted son, also from Vietnam, who is seven years old. He was adopted at age 3.5 from a special needs orphanage and presents with developmental and learning delays. His family is inquiring whether neurofeedback may be beneficial in supporting his overall executive functioning.

What makes this case particularly unique is his diagnosis of Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia (SED), a form of dwarfism associated with, among other systemic considerations, a smaller pituitary gland. His mother reports he has one of the most severe presentations of this condition. He also has bilateral cochlear implants.

I have the following questions for the group:

1. Has anyone worked with a child diagnosed with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia, and if so, do you believe neurofeedback would offer meaningful benefit, particularly for executive functioning and developmental delays? I cannot find any research specific to this diagnosis.

2. Has anyone ever done neurofeedback training with a client who has bilateral cochlear implants?

Any clinical experience, recommendations, or resources you are able to share would be extremely valuable, both for my own understanding and to help guide this family in their decision-making.

Thank you,
Cynthia W.

michell...@gmail.com

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May 27, 2026, 7:59:31 AMMay 27

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Hi Cynthia

I had one case about 9 years ago, with bilateral cochlear implants. QEEG identified biphasic waves (temporo-occipital) likely electrical artifacts associated with the implants, however we were exploring executive functioning concerns so clinically, addressed the Q findings which included frontal beta and low theta amplitude (irritable cortex). We commenced NFB however the family moved after only a few sessions so can't comment on efficacy of the intervention.

Hearing impairment is known to compromise cognitive and executive functioning; and cochlear implants can contribute to improved cognitive and executive function; however, there is also evidence to suggest that NFB can further improve cognitive functioning in children e.g. https://publish.kne-publishing.com/index.php/AVR/article/view/17276 (The paper studied 8 children ages 8–14 with cochlear implants; the experimental group received 20 neurofeedback sessions and showed improved reading-related outcomes compared with controls.)

Warm regards

Michelle

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