Biofeedback is a process that uses technology to measure and feed back information about a person’s physiology so that they can learn how to gain increased control over it. It is used clinically in healthcare settings by licensed mental or physical medicine professionals including psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors, physical therapists, chiropractors, nurses, occupational therapists, and rehab therapists. It can also be used in educational settings.
Here is a list of biofeedback equipment modalities and what they measure:
Surface EMG (Electromyography) – Action potentials produced when muscles contract.
Skin Temperature – Temperature increases when blood vessels dilate with relaxation and decreases when blood vessels constrict in response to stress.
Skin Conductance – Increases when sweat increases on the hands in response to emotional reaction.
Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability – Changes with changes in the autonomic nervous system. It is related to vagal tone and can be affected by emotional state and breathing as well as physical activity
Respiration – Measures depth, mechanics, and rate of breathing.
Capnometer – Measures the amount of CO2 in the air that is exhaled through the nostrils into two tubes connected to an instrument.
EEG (Electroencephalograph) – Measures action potentials produced when neurons in the brain fire as part of their communication and function.
Read more to discuss ways on how biofeedback equipment can be used.
If you’re seeking to improve your health and achieve optimal well-being, consider visiting us: Biofeedback Resources International