1. Biofeedback and Other Relaxation Techniques
Chapter 12
Biofeedback and
Other Relaxation Techniques

2. What is Biofeedback?
Instrumentation to measure psychophysiological patterns
Reports this data back to the subject
The individual may not be aware of the information
Process can be brought under voluntary control

3. Three Phases of Biofeedback
Measuring the physiological parameter
Converting this measurement into understandable data
Feeding back information to the subject who is learning to control their body processes

4. Benefits of Biofeedback
Biofeedback has specific physiological and psychological benefits

5. Physiological Effects
EMG biofeedback has been effective in treating the following conditions:
Asthma
Hypertension
Bruxism
Hyperkinesias
Spasticity
Cerebral palsy
Dystonias
Dysphonia
Ulcers
Muscle spasms
Nerve-muscle injuries
Spasmodic torticollis
Tinnitus
Migraine headache
Tension headache
Colitis

6. Physiological Effects, cont’d
Thermal biofeedback has been effective in treating the following conditions:
Raynaud’s disease
Hypertension
Palmar hyperhidrosis
Constipation
Jaw taping
TMJ syndrome
Excessive snoring
Migraine headaches
Scoliosis
Incontinence
Leg muscle weakness
Learning to walk (post stroke recovery)
Insomnia
Attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder

7. Physiological Effects, cont’d
Researchers have found contradictory results regarding some benefits/uses of biofeedback

8. Psychological Effects
Phobias
Stage fright
Alcoholism
Depression
Tension headaches
Pain
Burnout
Regulation of mental state
Anxiety
Insomnia
Drug abuse
Hyperactivity
Sexual dysfunction
Stuttering
Various affective disorders

9. Psychological Effects, cont’d
The more biofeedback is studied, the more common elements it shares with relaxation and cognitive stress management procedures (Rice, 1987)

10. Biofeedback Instrumentation
Biofeedback comes in various forms and measures various physiological parameters
Thermal (body temperature)
EMG (muscle tension)
Galvanic skin response (electrical conductivity)
Biofeedback is used as a training device to achieve greater control of your physiological processes
Once you are able to gain control, you will react positively to stress without dysfunction

11. Other Relaxation Techniques
Diaphragmatic breathing (breathing to expand the belly)
Body scanning – a technique that searches for body parts and transports that sensation to less relaxed areas
Massage and acupressure
Yoga and stretching
Repetitive prayer (Benson, 1985)

12. Other Relaxation Techniques, cont’d
Quieting reflex (Stroebel, 1983) - developing an “inner smile” technique
Instant Calming Sequence (ICS) by Robert Cooper involving 5-step approach, leading to quick relaxation
Mindfulness - focusing attention on the present moment to relax
Music and relaxation
Tai Chi

13. Biofeedback and Other Relaxation Techniques
Chapter 12
Biofeedback and
Other Relaxation Techniques