Overview
Biofeedback is a learning process in which people are taught to improve their health and performance by observing signals generated by their own bodies. It is scientifically based and validated by research studies and clinical practice.
The word "biofeedback" was coined to describe laboratory procedures that trained research subjects to alter brain activity, blood pressure, muscle tension, heart rate and other physiological responses often thought to have been beyond voluntary control. Biofeedback-assisted physical changes are accompanied by feelings of relaxation, improved motor control, and often by relief of dysfunctional physical and/or emotional symptoms.
Biofeedback is non-invasive. When used clinically, a therapist attaches sensors or electrodes to the body and these sensors provide a variety of readings--feedback--that is displayed on equipment, usually a meter or a computer, for the patient to see. One commonly used device called the electromyogram (EMG), for example, picks up electrical signals from the muscles. It translates the signals into a form that people can detect, such as a flashing light and/or a beeper, every time muscles become tenser. If one wants to relax tense muscles, one must try to slow down or eliminate the flashing or beeping. People learn to associate sensations from the muscle with actual levels of tension and develop a new, healthy habit of keeping muscles only as tense as is necessary for as long as necessary. After treatment, individuals are then able to repeat this response at will without being attached to the sensors.
Other biological functions, which are commonly measured and used in these ways, are skin temperature, heart rate (EKG, BVP), sweat gland activity (GSR, SC), respiration, and brainwave activity (EEG).
Clinicians rely on electronic biofeedback systems in somewhat the same way that you would rely on a thermometer. Their systems can detect a person's internal bodily functions with far greater sensitivity and accuracy than a person can alone. With this information, patients can learn to make changes so subtle that at first they may not be consciously perceived. This information may be valuable, as both patients and therapists can use it to gauge and direct the progress of treatment.
Studies have shown that we have more control over supposedly involuntary bodily functions than we ever thought possible. Researchers have proved that many individuals can alter their involuntary responses by being "fed back" information either visually or audibly about what is going on in their bodies. As a result, biofeedback can train individuals with techniques for living a healthier life overall - whether one has a medical condition or not.
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