Biofeedback

How does biofeedback work?

Biofeedback involves measuring physiological signals using sensors attached to the skin. These sensors record various parameters such as heart rate, muscle tension or skin conductance (an indicator of stress) and transmit the data to software. The software then converts the data into a form that the user can understand. The person can see in real time how their physiological values change and react accordingly.

What happens during biofeedback? Biofeedback involves measuring physiological parameters and feeding the data back to the person in real time. This enables you to learn to consciously influence these signals.

Typical measuring parameters include:​

· Muscle activity (EMG): Measures the tension in the muscles and helps to identify tension.

· Skin conductance (EDA): Detects the electrical conductivity of the skin, which increases under stress.

· Temperature: Shows changes in skin temperature that indicate stress or relaxation.

· Heart rate variability (HRV): measures the temporal fluctuations between heartbeats, which allows conclusions to be drawn about stress levels.

Areas of application for biofeedback

One common area of application for biofeedback is stress management. Stress leads to changes in heart rate, breathing and muscle tension. By receiving feedback on these signals, you can learn to deal with stress better and to regain control through targeted breathing exercises or relaxation techniques.

Biofeedback is also a proven method for treating chronic pain. Muscle tension or poor posture can increase pain, and by providing feedback on muscle activity (EMG), you learn to consciously reduce it. Biofeedback is particularly helpful for migraines and tension headaches because it can influence the dilation of blood vessels, which in turn leads to pain relief.

Biofeedback is also successfully used in the treatment of anxiety disorders to control physiological stress reactions. By learning to regulate their heart rate and breathing, users can gain better control over their anxiety and remain calm.

In rehabilitation after injuries or neurological diseases, such as strokes, biofeedback can help restore muscle control. EMG sensors provide patients with feedback on their muscle activity, enabling them to train in a targeted manner.

Ultimately, athletes also use biofeedback to improve their performance. By monitoring heart rate, muscle tension and breathing, they can optimize their recovery, improve their mental strength and refine their technique.​

But how long does it take for biofeedback to work? It depends on the application and the person. Initial improvements can be noticeable after just a few sessions, but sustained success requires regular training.

Advantages of biofeedback

Biofeedback offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive method for many people. Particularly noteworthy are its non-invasive application and the fact that biofeedback has no side effects, as it does not involve medication.

Advantages:

· Non-invasive and free of side effects: Biofeedback does not require medication and is completely painless.

· Promoting self-regulation: You learn to listen more consciously to your body and to control physiological processes.

· Scientifically sound: Many applications of biofeedback have been proven by studies, particularly in pain therapy and stress management.

The advantages are impressive, even if there are limits to its application. But is biofeedback legitimate? Biofeedback is a scientifically based method that is used in many areas of medicine and psychology. So you can use it without hesitation.

Who can benefit from biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a versatile method that can help many people improve their health and well-being. It is particularly beneficial for people with chronic pain, such as tension headaches or migraines. People who suffer from high levels of stress or burnout can also learn to relax better with targeted application. Athletes use biofeedback to optimize their training performance and promote their recovery. In addition, biofeedback can be valuable for people with anxiety disorders, as it enables them to recognize their physical stress reactions and better manage their fears.

Practical tips for integrating biofeedback into your daily routine

Integrating biofeedback into your daily routine can be an effective way to promote your own health and increase your long-term well-being. With the right equipment and a little practice, biofeedback can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

Practical tips for integration that we can offer:​

· How to get started with biofeedback: The first step is to choose a suitable biofeedback system. There are numerous devices and apps that are suitable for home use. 

· Selecting suitable devices: There are biofeedback devices that measure various parameters, from simple heart rate monitoring to complex EEG measurements for neurofeedback. Depending on your goal, you should choose a device that covers your specific needs.

· Integration into daily routines: Biofeedback can be easily integrated into everyday life. Take a few minutes each day to monitor your physiological signals and apply targeted relaxation techniques. Combining biofeedback with mindfulness exercises or meditation is particularly helpful.