Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a process that enables you to learn how to gain control over physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and performance. Precise instruments measure physiological activity such as your heart rate, breathing, muscle tension, skin temperature, and changes in perspiration. These instruments rapidly and accurately "feed back" information to you that is not easily perceived in order to bring that physiological process under conscious control.
The presentation of this information — often in conjunction with changes in thinking, emotions, and behavior — supports desired physiological changes. With practice, these skills will endure without continued use of an instrument.
During the session, you will watch a computer monitor displaying physiological activity such as muscle tone, or heart rate that are presented as line graphs on the screen. You will be taught a variety of self-regulation skills and be encouraged to duplicate what worked best in the training session when you are at home practicing your new skills.
When you are able to use your new skills in stressful real-life situations, then the biofeedback instruments are no longer needed. Patients usually attend 5-10 training visits, once a week.
