Small coils of wire are placed on the scalp. The coils produce magnetic fields designed to stimulate brain activity. Researchers at the University of Louisville in Kentucky are experimenting with this exciting form of therapy. Patients went for treatment two times a week for a period of five weeks. The treatment sessions lasted 20 minutes. The results were quite exciting and hopeful. Patients participating in the research experienced fewer periods of hyperactivity, repetitive behavior or sensory overload. There were no side effects, which is very encouraging. Often patients with autism have very high abilities in specific areas. For example, the autistic patient with unusually gifted math skills did not experience any decrease in mathematical ability. The reduction in these types of disturbing and distressing symptoms gave the patients an enhanced ability to communicate and relate to their surroundings.

The use of electromagnetic waves to treat disorders has actually been around for quite awhile. Its application to patients suffering from autism is, however, very new and extremely exciting.

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