Today there is a treatment technique used that trains patients to listen to the signals coming from their own bodies. As they become sensitive to these signals, they learn how to control them and thus improve their health. Different types of specialists make use of this technique, from psychologists to physical therapists. A biofeedback practitioner acts like a coach, assisting patients towards their goal such as controlling anxiety or pain.
Many machines are used today to find out more about what is happening inside our bodies. The information they give helps health care professionals to assess what is wrong and decide on treatment. Machines used for giving biofeedback work in much the same way as they provide information about what is happening inside us. However, a patient is not passive when undergoing treatment and is required to respond to the information.
Biofeedback machines work in much the same way. They help to pick up what is going on inside the body. For example, they may be used to measure skin temperature by attaching sensors to the feet or fingers. A drop in temperature is a sure sign that the person is experiencing stress. Sensors also measure the heart rate, activity of the sweat glands and amount of perspiration as well as the amount of tension in muscles.
These sensors or electrodes convey information that can be seen on a screen. This may appear in the form of a graph, a light may flash or a sound like a beep or a buzz will be heard. The strength of this will depend on the level of functioning. As the client applies the various methods advised, he or she can easily gauge the level of success by seeing any changes in the signals coming from the machine. Gradually, they are able to associate successful actions and thoughts with positive changes in their responses.
The idea behind the this treatment is that the physiological reactions of the body can be changed. Emotions, thoughts and behavior all influence the way the body responds and if these can be controlled, improvement is possible. For example, a machine measuring muscle tension is able to pick up electrical signals in the muscles and if they are tensing up, a light may flash or a beeper go off. A practitioner may use visualization and various mental exercises to help the patient towards the goal of controlling the tension.
Slowly but surely, the sufferer will begin to associate certain thoughts and actions with a positive change in their involuntary responses. The number of sessions required varies from person to person and also depends on the type of problem. The goal is to get the patient to the place where they have learned certain effective responses and they can exercise control on their own without needing the feedback.
When choosing a practitioner, it is important to find out whether the person has the required training and experience. Many people offer this treatment today with limited experience and no real credentials. They may only have received some training from the supplier of the machine. The person offering the service should have a knowledge of physiology and some psychological knowledge too. Hands on experience is also important, particularly with regard to the type of condition.
This treatment works on the mind and therefore the body. Results are measurable and people suffering from conditions like anxiety, depression, arthritis and pain feel the benefits. They are more able to manage their physiological responses after treatment.
Many machines are used today to find out more about what is happening inside our bodies. The information they give helps health care professionals to assess what is wrong and decide on treatment. Machines used for giving biofeedback work in much the same way as they provide information about what is happening inside us. However, a patient is not passive when undergoing treatment and is required to respond to the information.
Biofeedback machines work in much the same way. They help to pick up what is going on inside the body. For example, they may be used to measure skin temperature by attaching sensors to the feet or fingers. A drop in temperature is a sure sign that the person is experiencing stress. Sensors also measure the heart rate, activity of the sweat glands and amount of perspiration as well as the amount of tension in muscles.
These sensors or electrodes convey information that can be seen on a screen. This may appear in the form of a graph, a light may flash or a sound like a beep or a buzz will be heard. The strength of this will depend on the level of functioning. As the client applies the various methods advised, he or she can easily gauge the level of success by seeing any changes in the signals coming from the machine. Gradually, they are able to associate successful actions and thoughts with positive changes in their responses.
The idea behind the this treatment is that the physiological reactions of the body can be changed. Emotions, thoughts and behavior all influence the way the body responds and if these can be controlled, improvement is possible. For example, a machine measuring muscle tension is able to pick up electrical signals in the muscles and if they are tensing up, a light may flash or a beeper go off. A practitioner may use visualization and various mental exercises to help the patient towards the goal of controlling the tension.
Slowly but surely, the sufferer will begin to associate certain thoughts and actions with a positive change in their involuntary responses. The number of sessions required varies from person to person and also depends on the type of problem. The goal is to get the patient to the place where they have learned certain effective responses and they can exercise control on their own without needing the feedback.
When choosing a practitioner, it is important to find out whether the person has the required training and experience. Many people offer this treatment today with limited experience and no real credentials. They may only have received some training from the supplier of the machine. The person offering the service should have a knowledge of physiology and some psychological knowledge too. Hands on experience is also important, particularly with regard to the type of condition.
This treatment works on the mind and therefore the body. Results are measurable and people suffering from conditions like anxiety, depression, arthritis and pain feel the benefits. They are more able to manage their physiological responses after treatment.
About the Author:
Guy Burchill has been a biofeedback practitioner for 12 years.serving Erie and Meadville, PA. For more details about the many services you can receive, come to the Quantum Connection website at http://quantum-connection.net today.