Mode Of Action And Application Of Biofeedback Exemplified By Headache

Biofeedback is an instrument-based treatment procedure that is derived from behavioral therapy and aims to actively and consciously regulate the normally autonomic physiological processes ("bio"). These are acquired via a measuring device and transformed so that they can be acoustically, visually or tactually perceived. As soon as such a perception exists, the signal can be willfully influenced by the person himself. The feedback thus effects a conscious perception of these autonomic, often unconscious bodily processes. In this way they can be actively influenced and specifically altered. This is principally true for all bodily processes; however, the fineness and quality of the feedback is dependent particularly on the selection of the sensors. The method therefore necessitates not only basic technical understanding but also therapeutic competence. Both are illustrated in this article.