Biofeedback

What is it? /Origins

Bio-feedback is a method where-by an individual is given real-time information detailing their physiological\unconscious functions. The idea is that, when the user can directly monitor these functions, awareness of these background functions is bought forward to a more conscious level, allowing a person to control and manipulate these functions.

In 1960s when the concept of Biofeedback was introduced, scientists had high hopes that it would eventually teach us to control our subconscious functions so effectively many drugs could be replaced using biofeedback techniques. Interest in Bio-feedback however slowed down and such hopes diminished. It is still a technique utilized today in niche areas and though it is understood that the ability to consciously control these involuntary functions is limited, exploring their potential is still of great benefit.

What is it used for?

• Bio-feedback has been a treatment for relaxation, stress and pain. It has been particularly useful in helping people to become aware of the state of their muscles so that they can consciously tense and relax them. This is valuable for pain caused from muscles tensing to stress, such as in the back or neck.
• Digestive disorders
• Headaches
• Blood pressure
• Epilepsy
• Paralysis
• Some interest that it may aid in ADHD treatment

How does it work?

Different machines are used to measure physiological data and provide this feedback to persons.  This data is useful to establish what physiological changes may be causing stress, pain or other disorders. A very common and basic example of biofeedback is the use of a thermometer to take our temperature. The temperature may indicate that we are running a fever and then we act upon this information accordingly.

Bio-feedback is a good tool to teach people how to recognize signals in their bodies. Take for example managing stress.  Feedback from biofeedback can indicate to a person that they are relaxed through their blood pressure, low skin temperature and muscle tension results. After Bio-feedback treatment the person may then have learnt to recognize this relaxed state, putting them in a position that they are able to consciously relax.

Biofeedback can act as a rewarding mechanism to a person, encouraging the positive benefits reflected by the data.

Biofeedback can show crucial data to those who are paralyzed. By showing that the limbs are active and therefore have the potential to move, patients are motivated to continue therapy and rehabilitation.

Is it safe?

There are no dangers; the greater concern is the therapeutic\medical effectiveness and value of the treatment.

Any other interesting thing

Biofeedback receives criticism for being an expensive treatment when there are alternative methods of therapy.