Biofeedback

Clinical applications for biofeedback include the control of blood pressure for patients with hypertension, relief or control of migraine headaches, easing of muscle cramps, and relief of insomnia.

Biofeedback training begins with the basic control of heart rate or other readily accessible and controllable functions. The subject is provided an auditory or visual signal at first and is gradually weaned from it as he becomes more skillful at the practice. Once the basic skill has been learned he or she can then shift concentration to a specific problem. Ideally, patients will continue to practice biofeedback techniques and so increase their effectiveness over time.

Biofeedback has gained acceptance in the United States as its clinical use has increased. Most major cities have a biofeedback association, and practitioners can be certified by a national certification institute. Certification standards are rigorous to assure that the practitioner has a thorough understanding of physiology and psychology to better apply the methodology.