Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a type of complementary therapy useful in reading certain parts of your body using visual or auditory feedback to assist you in gaining control over involuntary bodily functions such as blood flow, blood pressure, and heart rate. This feedback may also be used to help alleviate symptoms of certain conditions including anxiety, chronic stress, high blood pressure, headaches, and pain.

With the use of bands on the wrists, ankles, and head, the biofeedback produces readings via sensors that can help bring to attention problem areas that can benefit from subtle changes such as relaxing certain muscles, slowing heart rate, or reducing feelings of pain. As a result of this therapy, many people are able to begin improving their health physically, emotionally, and mentally.

There are many different types of biofeedback. By choosing a specific approach to utilize, you will see different results.

Types of Biofeedback:
• Breathing
• Heart rate
• Galvanic skin response
• Blood pressure
• Skin temperature
• Brain waves

Biofeedback has been used for a range of applications, including:
• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Brain injuries
• Depression
• Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome
• High and low blood pressure
• Mental health conditions
• Migraines
• Pain
• Physical reactions to stress
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Relaxation and stress management
• Tension headaches

During a typical biofeedback session, electrical sensors will be connected to specifics areas of your body, depending on the type of response being measured. These sensors will be connected to a measurement device that will be able to provide feedback on your physical responses. During your session, (Donna) will guide you through different mental exercises that may involve visualization, meditation, breathing, or relaxation techniques. As you perform these activities, you will receive information on your physical response from the measurement device.

Your sessions will last between 30 and 60 minutes. The typical course of treatment often includes four to six sessions, however, eight to 10 are not uncommon. Duration of treatment and number of sessions is dependent on many factors, including:
• How well you respond to the training
• Condition you are focusing on
• Your goals for treatment

To learn more about biofeedback, see this whitepaper from the Mayo Clinic.