What Is Biofeedback Therapy?
Biofeedback therapy is a type of treatment that helps people learn to control certain bodily functions that are normally automatic, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension. It is based on the idea that by becoming more aware of these functions and how they are affected by stress and other emotions, people can learn to modify them and reduce physical and emotional symptoms. During a biofeedback therapy session, a person is connected to sensors that measure physiological activity such as brain waves, heart rate, and muscle tension. This information is then displayed on a monitor, allowing the person to see how their body is responding in real-time. The therapist can then guide the person through techniques to modify their physiological responses, such as relaxation exercises or deep breathing. Biofeedback therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, and managing chronic pain. It may also be used to treat conditions such as headaches, hypertension, and incontinence. Biofeedback therapy is usually done in a series of sessions with a trained therapist, and it may be combined with other forms of treatment such as medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy.
