by Amanda on December 13, 2010
Biofeedback is a form of alternative medicine through which an individual can learn to manage functions of the body including heart rate. In the process , the body is connected to sensors which are used to receive and measure bodily information. In this manner, the sensors allow you to make changes to your body in order to control bodily functions such as the relaxing of muscles. In other words, biofeedback allows you to use your mind to control bodily functions in order to improve overall physical and mental health.
The procedure can be used for a variety of situations in order to treat mental and physical health issues. These include:
• Asthma
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Side effects of chemotherapy
• Heart difficulties
• Elevated blood pressure
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Incontinence
• Raynaud’s disease
• Physical health
• Pain
The procedure has become increasingly popular for a number of reason which include:
• The procedure is noninvasive.
• It can be used as a treatment for individuals who do not wish to take medications.
• It can reduce or completely eliminate the need for medicines.
• It can be used when medications have not solved the problem.
• It can be used safely during pregnancy when other medications cannot.
Although scientists are not yet sure how the process functions, biofeedback has been shown to be effective in the controlling of symptoms without the use of medications. Although you will most likely need a professional to teach you how to learn the process, eventually you will be able to perform the technique on your own. It is necessary to remain patient throughout the learning process as learning the procedure can require some time. However, with the appropriate patience and care, you could find yourself feeling healthier in both mind and body.
by Amanda on December 2, 2010
Think of a biofeedback machine as a “whole body thermometer,” unique as each patient’s individual blueprint.
Because biofeedback therapy is used to treat a number of common and uncommon illnesses, there is a broad spectrum of options, depending on the patient’s recommended course of therapy and corresponding ailments. The illnesses can include chronic pain, high blood pressure, headaches (tension, migraine, or sinus). Biofeedback machines have been known to help many patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD and others.
The machines used for biofeedback training vary according to machine price, length of therapy and your personal custom needs. The below checklist may be helpful for you to use through the process of locating the best machine to meet your special needs and complement your therapy.
(1) Begin by gathering all of the facts, starting with a solid diagnosis. How will you be using the machine? The diagnosis should come from your doctor, specialist or chiropractor, who will be able to recommend the best course of therapy and biofeedback machine for you. Make sure you ask your doctor for a letter describing your course of treatment. You will need this letter when you speak with your insurance company.
(2) What will your course of therapy look like, timewise?
(3) Will you be using the machine at home or the hospital? Be sure to narrow your search for machines that apply to your specifications. This will cut down on costs.
(4) Will your therapy be covered by your insurance provider? This is when the “doctor’s note” will come in handy. Even if your insurance is denied, you will have better leverage with this letter, should you require a short or long term biofeedback machine rental.
(5) If your condition does not improve or even worsens during treatment, contact your doctor or practitioner immediately.
by Amanda on December 1, 2010
Neurofeedback is a technique used to train the central nervous system to function more effectively. Through a system of gradual measurements and rewards, brain activity increasingly adapts to more productive patterns. Also called EEG Biofeedback, neurofeedback is like any other biofeedback, but it is applied directly to the brain.
There are a few basic facts to know before considering this approach.
• Neurofeedback is used to treat a variety of dysfunctions of the brain. Among these are ADHD, anxiety, sleep and behavioral problems, headaches, and PMS. It may, also be effective for disorders like seizures and autism.
• This technique involves the application of electrodes to the head to monitor brain waves. The signal is analyzed by a computer, and biofeedback then attempts to change the frequency to a more desirable level. Prior research is used to determine which assessments protocols are used for a particular individual.
• Biofeedback is not a cure for dysregulations within the brain. However, it does attempt to restore the brain its regular functions. Malfunctions that result from dysregulation should improve over time as the brain learns to regulate itself.
• Degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and dementia, may require lengthy treatment. Such factors as allergies and toxins may decrease the results of biofeedback over time.
• Adults and children (especially) may benefit throughout their lives. After a period of intensive training and treatment, it is sometimes possible to transition to the use of biofeedback programs at home. This makes biofeedback more convenient and affordable.
Sevices are provided by some mental health professionals, such as psychologists, therapists, medical doctors, and psychiatrists, on a one-to-one ratio. Holistic practitioners, educators, nurses, and clinical social workers may, also, be trained to provide this service. Some treatments may be covered by insurance; however, coverage is often not adequate for chronic mental conditions. It some cases, patients are able to negotiate with providers for much-needed coverage.
by Monique on August 10, 2010
Biofeedback is resistant to double-blind drug research – one cannot provide fake real-time feedback of biological processes and expect both the subject and the researcher to remain unaware. However, prevalence of widespread skepticism combined with the preference for evidence-based treatment at some point in time mandated the need for research-based evaluations of treatments.
To meet this need, the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback together with the International Society for Neurofeedback and Research established a “five levels of efficacy” model for judging biofeedback. Each level professes a certain degree of proven effectiveness in clinical trials. The placement of a condition’s treatment on a particular level is not necessarily a statement as to the actual effectiveness of feedback-based treatment of the condition, but is simply a statement as to how well that effectiveness is supported by empirical research. The five levels of efficacy are as follows:
Level 1: Not Empirically Supported
Examples: Eating Disorders, Immune System Functioning
Isolated reports support the efficacy. Controlled research has yet to show results.
Level 2: Possibly Efficacious
At least one study has shown statistically significant results, but without a proper control group.
Level 3: Probably Efficacious
The treatment’s efficacy is supported by multiple studies, but the studies (e.g. observational studies) lack enough scientific rigor to verify that it is the treatment which is producing the results.
Level 4: Efficacious
At least two completely independent researchers have shown valid data supporting the treatments efficacy in comparison with a random control group.
Level 5: Efficacious and Specific
At least two completely independent researchers have shown the treatment to be superior to either a) credible sham therapy, b) pill, or c) alternative bona fide treatment.
*The only condition categorized under Level 5 is female urinary incontinence.
Reference: Wikipedia
If you’ve been feeling stressed lately, are dealing with insomnia, depression, or anxiety, or have a child who is suffering from ADHD, you may want to consider biofeedback therapy. This new form of medicine has been proven to heal and restore the stress levels of many individuals, and you may be able to find specialists in your area that can help. [Read More…]
