What is Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is a therapy method for the treatment of mental and physical illnesses. The patient learns to perceive and influence unconscious processes in his or her own body, such as heart rate, blood pressure, sweat gland activity and even brain waves.
Not all people respond equally well to biofeedback. In addition, it can take some time before the first success is seen. The application of the procedure is basically painless and harmless.
When is biofeedback performed?
Biofeedback training is used for psychosomatic, psychological and purely physical illnesses. Examples of common applications of biofeedback:
- Migraine
- tension headache
- chronic back pain
- muscle tension
- Incontinence (urine, stool)
- Constipation (obstipation)
- epilepsy and other diseases with seizures
- stress-related diseases such as sleep disorders, tinnitus or irritable bowel syndrome
What does one do in biofeedback?
There is no special “biofeedback device”. Rather, various techniques are available for the perception of bodily processes. Which of these is used in individual cases depends on the individual complaints.
For example, he can “live” the reaction of his body to negative memories or stressful situations, such as the rise in blood pressure or the increased activity of the sweat glands. Once the patient has grasped the connection between external influences and his reaction, he must learn to influence his body, for example through relaxation exercises.
Further information: Neurofeedback
What are the risks of biofeedback?
Biofeedback is usually performed with non-invasive measuring devices. Thus, there are no special risks involved. The method is therefore also well suited for children and pregnant women.
It should be noted, however, that biofeedback is an alternative therapy method: As a rule, it does not replace medical therapy. In addition, the patient should be aware that he or she must contribute a considerable amount to the treatment.
Use biofeedback regularly, as you learned it during your therapy, to consciously perceive and influence certain bodily functions. You do not need to take any special precautions.