Humans are neither machines nor robots. Some of our automatic functions can be difficult (if not impossible) to control. Is this true? Really? How about training our body to react differently by monitoring some parameters through biofeedback?

How Biofeedback Works: A Little Introduction

Imagine that you are sitting in front of a regular looking computer except for a few wires and sensors connecting it to you. This computer and its sensors have the capability to measure several physiological activities such as breathing, heart rate, sweat level, skin temperature, muscle activity and brain activity.

In addition to the quantifying capability of this equipment, the computer can process the data and provide feedback by showing you the results. You can then focus on changing your behaviour consciously. Basically, biofeedback machines allow patients to train themselves in reacting differently, whether the purpose is for treating a disorder, improving relaxation or enhancing performance.

Benefits Of Using Biofeedback Machines

The Association of Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback (AAPB) defines biofeedback as a process that enables an individual to learn how to change physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and performance.

Biofeedback has proven quite successful in certain areas such as anxiety, Attention Deficit and Hypertension Disorder (ADHD), hypertension, migraine and tension headaches as well as urinary incontinence. In June 2008, the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology published the results of a study on biofeedback for tension headaches. The report concluded that biofeedback for tension headaches was an evidence-based treatment.

Types Of Biofeedback Machines

There are several types of biofeedback machines, all of which serve a slightly different purpose. Here are some common machines:

- Capnometers are a type of biofeedback machines that measure carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in order to help treat hyperventilation.

- Electromyography (EMG) can be used as a relaxation method to ease neck and back pain as well as treat any other pain or disorder associated with muscle tension such as incontinence or tension headaches.

- An electrodermograph uses the same technology as some polygraphs and monitors the activity of your sweat glands. This type of biofeedback machine is useful for people with anxiety, phobia or stuttering problems.

- Electroencephalographs (EEG) can monitor brainwaves and are often used when treating patients with ADHD.

- Feedback thermometers can be used to monitor the skin temperature and can be used to treat certain circulatory disorders or migraines.

- Hemoencephalography (HEG) biofeedback uses infrared imaging to determine cerebral activity via oxygen levels or thermal levels. This technology can be helpful in treating migraine headaches.

- Photoplethysmography (PPG) biofeedback machines monitor parameters associated with the heart and can be used to help treat certain types of cardiac arrhythmias.

- Pneumographs monitor abdominal and chest movements and can be useful in the treatment of breathing problems.

Hooked Up To A Biofeedback Machine Forever?

Rest assured that the goal of these treatments is to teach your body how to react differently than you normally do. Several patients learn to condition themselves and do not need to use their biofeedback machines as often as they initially did.