Important Aspects On Biofeedback Therapy Santa Fe Residents May Need To Know

By Angela Briggs


Feedback is a very important physiological adaptation for biological organisms. It is the means by which living organisms sense changes in their environment and respond appropriately. This helps in the restoration of normalcy. The treatment known as biofeedback works in a similar manner; identifying abnormal conditions and initiating a response to restore normalcy. There are a number of important things on biofeedback therapy Santa Fe residents should be aware of even as they consider this option.

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.

There are a number of physiological responses that can be monitored. This is achieved by using specialized instruments. Muscle tension, which is a common manifestation of apprehension, can be monitored by use of an instrument known as an electromyogram. Brain activity is determined by detecting alpha and delta waves using the encephalogram or EEG. Other biological processes that may be measured are heart rate, blood pressure and skin temperature.

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.

The indications for biofeedback have been increasing over time. A group of conditions known as anxiety disorders have been reported to respond very well to the treatment. Some of them include social and specific phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder s and generalized anxiety disorders. The treatment is largely based on relaxation.

Some studies have shown some benefit of potential benefits when the treatment is used for treatment of some medical conditions. Asthma, especially, for episodes related to panic attacks has been reported to be fairly well responsive to the therapy. EMG studies are used to determine the degree of airway resistance in the airways and this can be reduced when the patient makes some particular adjustments. Other conditions include grandma epilepsy, hyperactivity, bruxism, hypertension, dysmenorrhea and tension headaches among others.

To benefit optimally from this treatment, one needs to bear responsibility for their health. The importance of active participation in looking for treatment cannot be overemphasized. The patient needs to constantly examine their lives and identify any potential stressors that may be responsible for their suffering and focus towards eliminating or modifying them. Commitment to therapy is central to its success.

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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment