Vital Information On Biofeedback Therapy

By Enid Hinton


Biofeedback is the technique used for learning to control the functions of the body like the heart rate. With the technique, one is connected to electrical sensors which help them to receive information about the body. This is why it is known as biofeedback therapy. It assists the person to focus on making body changes such as relaxation of certain muscles. Essentially, it gives the individual the power to use their thoughts to control the body, usually to help with physical performance or a health condition.

Among the physical conditions managed by the technique are constipation, asthma, anxiety and chronic pain. There are many reasons why this technique is preferred by many people. Being a non invasive procedure, it is the preference of most patients. Furthermore, it eliminates any need to make use of medications and therefore is the best choice for persons who may not be comfortable with medicines. It is also an alternative when medications do not work effectively.

The procedure is generally safe but may not be appropriate for everyone. The patient needs to discuss with the doctor to determine the suitability of the procedure. There are no special preparations for the treatment. To get the best therapist, one needs to ask their doctor or other health professionals with knowledge of the technique. They will recommend the right people who have experience in biofeedback treatment. Most therapists in this field are licensed in other areas of health such as physical therapy or nursing.

During the visit to the potential therapist, one needs to have certain issues clarified before they can settle on them. First and foremost, the therapists need to be registered and licensed. Should they not be licensed, they ought to be working under some licensed professional. The person should have undergone the right training and have the right experience. This meeting will help to determine the number of sessions that will be required. The therapist should give a list of references as proof of their ability.

During the biofeedback sessions, electrical sensors are attached to different parts of the body. The sensors monitor the physiological state of the body such as skin temperature, brain waves or muscle tension. The information is fed back to the individual through cues like a beeping sound or flashing light. This feedback teaches the person to change or control the physiological reaction of the body.

For instance, it will be possible to pinpoint tense muscles that bring about headaches. It will then be up to the patient to learn ways of invoking body physical changes such as relaxing specific muscles for minimization of pain. The ultimate goal is to learn the techniques individually from home.

Typical sessions last for 30 to 60 minutes. The number and length of sessions are dependent on the condition of the individual and how fast they learn to control the physical responses. One may need 10 or 50 sessions, making it costly. It is never covered by insurance.

There are different types of biofeedback. Among them are temperature biofeedback, galvanic skin response training and heart rate variability. Most of the devices currently used are marketed for home use.




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