Biofeedback

What Is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a mind-body technique that teaches you to control physiological processes that are normally involuntary, such as muscle tension, heart rate, and skin temperature. Sensors attached to your body measure these functions and display them on a screen, helping you learn to make changes that can reduce pain and stress.¹

How It Works²

• Sensors measure body functions
• Information displayed in real-time
• Visual/audio feedback guides learning
• Practice controlling the response
• Eventually do it without equipment

Types of Biofeedback

EMG (Electromyography)

• Measures muscle tension
• Most common for pain
• Useful for tension headaches, TMJ
• Helps identify unconscious tension

Thermal Biofeedback

• Measures skin temperature
• Temperature reflects blood flow
• Used for migraines, Raynaud's

Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

• Measures heart rhythm patterns
• Helps regulate stress response
• Useful for anxiety-related pain

Neurofeedback (EEG)

• Measures brainwave activity
• Used for chronic pain conditions
• May help fibromyalgia

Conditions It Can Help³

• Tension headaches
• Migraines
• TMJ disorders
• Chronic back pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Raynaud's disease

What to Expect

• Sessions typically 30-60 minutes
• Usually 8-20 sessions needed
• Sensors placed on skin (painless)
• Practice techniques in session
• Home practice assigned

Benefits

• Non-invasive and safe
• No medications or side effects
• Gives sense of control
• Skills last after treatment ends
• Can reduce medication needs

Finding a Practitioner

• Look for BCIA certification
• Psychologists, physical therapists
• Pain clinics often offer it
• May be covered by insurance

References

1. Nestoriuc Y, Martin A, Rief W, Andrasik F. Biofeedback treatment for headache disorders: a comprehensive efficacy review. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 2008;33(3):125-140.
2. Tan G, Shaffer F, Lyle R, Teo I. Evidence-based practice in biofeedback and neurofeedback. 3rd ed. AAPB; 2016.
3. Sielski R, Rief W, Glombiewski JA. Efficacy of biofeedback in chronic back pain: a meta-analysis. Int J Behav Med. 2017;24(1):25-41.