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What is Biofeedback?
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If you have ever taken your
temperature or stepped on a scale to see how much you weigh, you have
used biofeedback. The temperature and weight readings from these devices
give "feedback" about your body to tell you whether you have a fever or
have gained weight. This information will help you make
decisions about what to do next. In a similar way, biofeedback
therapists use specialized equipment to train patients how to improve
their health by using signals from their own bodies.
Biofeedback is a
non-invasive form of treatment. The therapist attaches sensors or
electrodes to the body and these sensors provide a variety of readings--feedback--which
is displayed on the equipment for the patient to see. The signals
typically measure skin temperature, muscle tension and/or brainwave
function. With this information, patients can learn to make changes so
subtle that at first they cannot be consciously perceived. With
practice, however, the new responses and behaviors can help to bring
relief and improvement to a variety of disorders. |
| Through
biofeedback a person experiencing migraines can learn to ward off
headaches. A person who experienced a stroke may regain muscle
use. Children and adults diagnosed with ADD or ADHD may see improved
concentration and control. People with urinary or fecal incontinence or
other pelvic floor disorders can achieve improved bladder control.
Individuals with stress-related disorders learn to relax and improve
their overall health.
How many sessions
does it take? Typically, biofeedback treatment involves a
regular series of sessions over a period of several weeks. Some courses
of treatment may involve as few as 10 or 15 sessions; other disorders
may require 40 or 50. The good news is that biofeedback teaches
individuals self regulation. Once the techniques are learned,
the patient may never again require biofeedback therapy or only a
"refresher" session now and then. |
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