ange habitual typing errors, or learn to swim more efficiently, so can we eliminate maladaptive psychophsyiological patterns and learn more adaptive patterns. We can learn the skills needed to control any body function of which we are aware. Clinical biofeedback also involves learning relaxation techniques, using the instruments to the practitioner and client toward processes that are most effective for the client. Instrument readings are further used to reinforce physical and mental/emotional behavior that are related to relaxation and automatic nervous system balance. Reinforcement is an important aspect of learning.
The client is an active participant in the process of healing and health maintenance. The client and practitioner are partners in setting and meeting treatment goals. The client is responsible for between-session practice of relaxation or other homework techniques and for maintaining awareness of symptom patterns as the relate to life-style factors. The client is expected to gain awareness of stressors in order to prevents symptoms from occurring by practicing relaxation or coping techniques when stressors are expected or present.
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.