Making A Difference

A Primer on Biofeedback Therapy

What is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a therapy to measure your body’s response to key functions with the help of sensors. This information helps you learn more about how your body works, gives you control over body functions, and insights into health conditions.

This therapy operates on the premises of mind over matter. Once you know how your body responds to stress-causing events and other stimuli, you may be able to improve your health. These events have adverse impacts on our body, mainly on the functioning of the heart and blood pressure. Biofeedback controls the body's processes by promoting more effective physical and mental responses to stress.

Research conducted in 2017 found that biofeedback therapy was effective in treating depression, physical disability, and muscle tension and also improves cognitive coping abilities. It also improves various pain-related outcomes in the short and long term.

When is Biofeedback Therapy used?

Biofeedback is also beneficial in treating the following conditions:

• Asthma
• Incontinence
• Constipation
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Side effects of Chemotherapy
• Raynaud’s Disease
• Back Pain
• Migraine
• Fibromyalgia Pain

Types of Biofeedback

The three most common methods are:

1. Electromyography (EMG) Biofeedback

Electromyographic biofeedback is a diagnostic procedure that helps assess the health of the muscle and the nerve cells that control them. During the activity,  muscles produce an electrical current that is proportional to the level of muscle activity. The EMG signal measures the current generated in the muscles during contractions representing neuromuscular activities.

This technique uses visual or sound signals to monitor activity in the muscle. During therapy, electrodes are placed on the patient’s muscles to generate feedback in response to muscle activation. They may allow for more effective ways to gain strength or regain the use of that part of the body. 

2. Thermal or Temperature Biofeedback

Thermal biofeedback uses body temperature to assess the physical state of a person. It monitors real-time changes in temperature. These inputs can be used to control body temperature and eventually gain control over certain physical issues.

Mainly used in relaxation exercises, this therapy also helps reduce stress by raising body temperature. Skin temperature biofeedback is also used in managing migraines, chronic pain, high blood pressure, insomnia, and digestive disorders. 

3. Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Electroencephalogram tracks and records brain waves with the help of small wired electrodes attached to the scalp. They analyze the electrical impulses in the brain and record data on a  computer. The peaks and valleys of the waves help to identify abnormal patterns and irregularities relating to seizures or other brain disorders.

EEG is used for epilepsy, head injuries, encephalitis, brain tumors, encephalopathy, sleep disorders, stroke, and dementia.

A biofeedback session lasts for 30 to 60 minutes. The number of sessions required will depend on how quickly you learn to control your body responses. A biofeedback therapist can help you lower your heart rate through breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and mental exercises designed to encourage positivity and relaxation.  

There are many biofeedback devices available for home use.

Where to buy a biofeedback device?

HPFY carries a number of high-quality biofeedback devices. Some of our best sellers are:

Biofeedback therapy can provide amazing insights into your body. Common usages include biofeedback for migraines and pain management. Consult your doctor to see if biofeedback therapy is right for you. 

 

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