What is Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is defined as the technique of using state of
the art instruments to monitor such biological functions as muscle
tension. skin temperature. heart rate. sweat gland activity. and brain
wave activity. The results are fed back to an individual in the form of
visual and auditory signals. These bodily functions are described as
involuntary in that they just happen. Research has proved that many
individuals are able to alter their involuntary responses. The primary
goal of biofeedback is to provide enough information to learn
self-control of these internal processes. A basic premise of
biofeedback is that self-regulation can occur for any physiological
activity that can be accurately measured. With the development of
electronics and microcomputers. biofeedback has become a very
sophisticated service in many health care disciplines. Biofeedback is
considered complimentary to a patients overall treatment plan.
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What are Biofeedback Modalities?
The different kinds of instrumentation used to monitor
biological function recordings and feedback are known as modalities.
Electromyography ( EMG ) measurers the electrical energy necessary to
signal a muscle contraction. Electroencephalographic (EEG ) feedback
provides information concerning brain wave activity. Additional
modalities often used by biofeedback professionals include measuring
peripheral skin temperature, sweat gland activity, blood pressure, and
respiratory feedback. Biofeedback training modalities are available for
incontinence.
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What is Neurofeedback?
Neurotherapy, also known as EEG Biofeedback, is a
painless, non-invasive treatment approach that allows an individual to
gain information about his or her brainwave activity. With appropriate
training, the information gained is used to produce changes in
brainwave activity. Extensive research has been done with
Attention-Deficit Disorder with promising results. Neurofeedback is
used with disorders having a strong physiological arousal component.
Training protocols have been established through research for chemical
dependency, PTSD, certain forms of depression, anxiety, chronic pain,
head injury, and strokes.
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What is Psychophysiology?
The mental health and physical health communities have
always believed there was a close connection between the mind and the
body. Psychophysiology explores the relationship between mental
activity and physical functions in a scientific way. Biofeedback is the
process used to monitor and treat these physical changes.
Self-regulation is the goal. Stress-related health problems are a
concern in our society. How we think and respond to our daily stressors
directly relate to the prevention of many physical problems.
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Is there an "Official Definition" of Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is a process that enables an individual to learn how to
change physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and
performance. Precise instruments measure physiological activity such as
brainwaves, heart function, breathing, muscle activity, and skin
temperature. These instruments rapidly and accurately "feed back"
information to the user. The presentation of this information - often in
conjunction with changes in thinking, emotions, and behavior - supports
desired physiological changes. Over time, these changes can endure
without continued use of an instrument.
Approved May 18, 2008 by:
Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB)
Biofeedback Certification Institute of America (BCIA)
International Society for Neurofeedback and Research (ISNR)
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