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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment