Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a set of techniques that trains people to influence physiological processes that are typically automatic, such as heart rate, muscle tension, skin temperature, and brain activity. By providing real-time feedback from monitoring instruments, individuals learn to regulate these processes through conscious strategies and operant learning.

How it works: sensors measure a physiological signal and translate it into perceivable feedback, such as a moving line on a screen or tones. The person practices relaxation, focused attention, breathing, or mental strategies to change the signal, reinforcing voluntary control over time.

Modalities: Electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback uses muscle activity; thermal biofeedback uses skin temperature; electroencephalographic biofeedback (neurofeedback) uses brainwave activity; heart rate variability and galvanic skin response measure heart and skin signals. Devices range from simple home kits to clinical-grade equipment.

Applications: Biofeedback is used in managing anxiety and stress, chronic pain, migraine, hypertension, asthma, insomnia, ADHD, and rehabilitation after stroke or injury. It is commonly offered as part of cognitive-behavioral or relaxation-based therapies and sometimes used to enhance athletic performance.

Effectiveness and evidence: Systematic reviews indicate modest to moderate benefits for certain conditions, particularly anxiety management and migraine prevention, when delivered by trained professionals. Results vary by modality, condition, and study quality; biofeedback is usually considered an adjunct to other treatments rather than a stand-alone cure.

Limitations and considerations: Training typically requires several sessions and commitment. Access to qualified practitioners and equipment can be limiting. Outcomes depend on user engagement, and some people may not respond to certain modalities.

History and context: The development of biofeedback began in the mid-20th century, with researchers demonstrating that people could gain voluntary control over physiological processes by monitoring bodily signals and employing relaxation and cognitive strategies. Today it is incorporated into clinical practice and research.