Peripheral Biofeedback
Peripheral biofeedback is a type of biofeedback that measures bodily functions that are controlled by the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is responsible for involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and muscle tension.
There are several different types of peripheral biofeedback, including:
Electromyography (EMG): This type of biofeedback measures muscle tension. A small sensor is placed on the skin over the muscle of interest, and the electrical activity of the muscle is then amplified and displayed on a screen. The person can then see how their muscle tension changes in response to different stimuli, such as relaxation techniques or stress-inducing thoughts.
Skin temperature biofeedback: This type of biofeedback measures skin temperature. A small sensor is placed on the skin, and the temperature of the skin is then amplified and displayed on a screen. The person can then see how their skin temperature changes in response to different stimuli, such as relaxation techniques or stress-inducing thoughts.
Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback: This type of biofeedback measures the variation in time between heartbeats. A small sensor is placed on the chest, and the electrical activity of the heart is then amplified and displayed on a screen. The person can then see how their heart rate variability changes in response to different stimuli, such as relaxation techniques or stress-inducing thoughts.
Peripheral biofeedback can be used to help people with a variety of conditions, including:
Anxiety: Biofeedback can help people with anxiety learn to control their breathing and muscle tension, which can help reduce their anxiety symptoms.
High blood pressure: Biofeedback can help people with high blood pressure learn to control their heart rate and blood pressure, which can help lower their blood pressure.
Chronic pain: Biofeedback can help people with chronic pain learn to control their muscle tension, which can help reduce their pain.
Migraines: Biofeedback can help people with migraines learn to control their blood flow and muscle tension, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of their migraines.
Peripheral biofeedback is a safe and effective way to help people learn to control their bodily functions. It is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as relaxation techniques and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
If you are interested in trying peripheral biofeedback, you should contact us.