Feedback is an important biological adaptation of living organisms. It is the mechanism by which the organisms sense and respond to changes in their internal and external environments and respond to them as is appropriate. This whole process occurs through what is known as feedback loops. Biofeedback works in very much the same way. There are a number of things on biofeedback therapy Santa Fe residents should know even as they consider this option of treatment.
In the treatment, stimuli generated by various organs of the body are picked up relayed externally to the patient. The output is processed into either an auditory or visual signal that the patient can either see or hear. By responding to this stimulus, the patient learns to modify their behaviors over time. This is also known as conditioning. Biofeedback as a form of treatment has continued to evolve over the years for the better.
The physiological processes that can be monitored are mainly the involuntary biological functions. This is achieved by the use of special instruments depending on the system that is being evaluated. Electrical potentials of muscle fibers are one of the components measured and this is done by the electromyogram or EMG. Brain activity is measured using an instrument known as the electroencephalogram. Other parameters include skin temperature, heart rate and blood pressure.
Since the original signal is sub threshold, there is need to amplify it to a level that is detectable. Usually the level or amount of signal that is generated is proportional to the original. This means that a high level of muscle tension will result in a similarly high signal and vice versa. By studying this relationship, one can make adjustments to their bodies which in turn help in the alleviation of symptoms related to illnesses.
Over the years, the list of applications of biofeedback has continued to grow. Anxiety disorders are perhaps the commonest indication for this treatment. They include, among others, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Persons with these conditions are trained on how to relax and overcome the associated feelings of apprehension.
Apart from the psychiatric conditions, studies have established the benefit of the treatment in a number of medical conditions. Those that are related to panic states have shown a particularly good response. Asthma, for example, can be treated through monitoring with an electromyogram and instituting relaxation techniques to counter the symptoms. Relaxation in this case helps to reduce air resistance and to improve breathing. Other conditions treated in a similar manner include hyperactivity, bruxism, tension headaches, dysmenorrhea and hypertension.
The therapy places a number of responsibilities on the patients as they have to participate in maintaining their well-being. By examining their daily lives, they learn to identify factors that may be contributing to their distress. It is only through their recognition of the fact they can remedy their illnesses through commitment to regular relaxation that the therapy can work. They must be ready to modify their habits and adopt good ones.
When undergoing biofeedback therapy Santa Fe residents need to know that the response is better when it is combined with other modalities. Commonly, it is used alongside treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapies, psychodynamic psychotherapies and pharmacological treatment. Social support also improves response.
In the treatment, stimuli generated by various organs of the body are picked up relayed externally to the patient. The output is processed into either an auditory or visual signal that the patient can either see or hear. By responding to this stimulus, the patient learns to modify their behaviors over time. This is also known as conditioning. Biofeedback as a form of treatment has continued to evolve over the years for the better.
The physiological processes that can be monitored are mainly the involuntary biological functions. This is achieved by the use of special instruments depending on the system that is being evaluated. Electrical potentials of muscle fibers are one of the components measured and this is done by the electromyogram or EMG. Brain activity is measured using an instrument known as the electroencephalogram. Other parameters include skin temperature, heart rate and blood pressure.
Since the original signal is sub threshold, there is need to amplify it to a level that is detectable. Usually the level or amount of signal that is generated is proportional to the original. This means that a high level of muscle tension will result in a similarly high signal and vice versa. By studying this relationship, one can make adjustments to their bodies which in turn help in the alleviation of symptoms related to illnesses.
Over the years, the list of applications of biofeedback has continued to grow. Anxiety disorders are perhaps the commonest indication for this treatment. They include, among others, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Persons with these conditions are trained on how to relax and overcome the associated feelings of apprehension.
Apart from the psychiatric conditions, studies have established the benefit of the treatment in a number of medical conditions. Those that are related to panic states have shown a particularly good response. Asthma, for example, can be treated through monitoring with an electromyogram and instituting relaxation techniques to counter the symptoms. Relaxation in this case helps to reduce air resistance and to improve breathing. Other conditions treated in a similar manner include hyperactivity, bruxism, tension headaches, dysmenorrhea and hypertension.
The therapy places a number of responsibilities on the patients as they have to participate in maintaining their well-being. By examining their daily lives, they learn to identify factors that may be contributing to their distress. It is only through their recognition of the fact they can remedy their illnesses through commitment to regular relaxation that the therapy can work. They must be ready to modify their habits and adopt good ones.
When undergoing biofeedback therapy Santa Fe residents need to know that the response is better when it is combined with other modalities. Commonly, it is used alongside treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapies, psychodynamic psychotherapies and pharmacological treatment. Social support also improves response.
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When you need biofeedback therapy Santa Fe residents can turn to Optimal Body brain (www.optimalbodybrain.com). To see all that we can do for you, visit us now at http://www.optimalbodybrain.com.
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