Biofeedback continues to emerge as a viable and scientifically based treatment for an increasing number of conditions. Biofeedback is a therapeutic tool which provides physiological information in order to help individuals improve self-regulation skills. The principles of biofeedback are used every time you step on a scale or use a thermometer. Similarly, sensitive biofeedback instruments are used to measure your body's physiological processes such as temperature, skeletal muscle tension, and heart rate, which are often not generally within one's awareness. Biofeedback treatment sessions are usually held one to one with the patient and therapist.
Therapy takes place in a comfortable chair in a room free of distractions.
Each aspect of treatment is thoroughly explained to the patient. For thermal biofeedback, a thermistor is gently attached to the hand, foot or other clinically indicated site with a small piece of tape in order to measure peripheral skin temperature. During stress, blood vessels become constricted and pass less warm blood. Thermal biofeedback training helps individuals combat the stress response which is measurable as an increase in skin temperature. For electromyograph biofeedback, the skin is first prepped by lightly cleaning the surface of the skin to allow for proper contact.