A Brief History and Explanation of Biofeedback

 The ideas at the foundation of biofeedback have actually been around for almost 150 years. At that time, it was first realized that systems – especially those of humans – tend to regulate themselves in order to maintain stability. This concept is called homeostasis. Building on that theory, the medical science behind biofeedback as we currently know it has advanced at a remarkably rapid pace. Beginning in the latter half of the 20^th century, researchers and scientists embarked on a quest to be able to eventually use the precepts of homeostasis to improve the lives and health of people all across the world. In the last 20 years we have finally gotten there, and we are all lucky to be alive at a time like this.

In general, the biofeedback looks something like this: instruments are used to measure specific physiological activity within our bodies, whether it is brainwaves, breathing, the heart, or another individual function. Measurement provides us with feedback (thus the name biofeedback) that allows us to make judgments about how efficiently everything is performing. Once we know if a specific body process needs some coaching or retraining to get back up to speed, professionals can guide patients through treatment with the goal of correcting health problems without surgery, drugs, or lifelong therapy. In essence, biofeedback helps you help yourself.

The Amazing Human Brain

It shouldn’t be surprising to find out what type of biofeedback can make the most drastic changes. After all, our brain serves as the head of our central nervous system and the director for basically every vital bodily function. Biofeedback dealing with the brain is referred to as neurofeedback, and this therapy has produced some truly astounding results over the last decade or so. Research has shown that neurofeedback can be especially effective as an intervention for various neurological ailments, including headaches, insomnia, anxiety, autism, and many others.

As mentioned before, at the core of all biofeedback therapies is the proven notion that the body wants to operate as a highly-functioning whole. The brain, particularly, adheres to this principle. It is amazing how little of a kick in the butt it takes to get our brains back to normal, and neurofeedback serves as the best kind of catalyst. While it seems like a process as potentially life-changing as neurofeedback would be ridiculously strenuous, it is quite the opposite. Neurofeedback is all completely noninvasive, and aimed at providing long-term tools for dealing with neurological issues so patients don’t have to keep coming back. Correction of the problem usually takes the form of a guided brain exercise, and patients will not have to experience any pain or discomfort to reap invaluable benefits. If you have been struggling with any of the aforementioned neurological issues, medication, and therapy with only limited success, it may be time to start considering new approaches.

To learn more about biofeedback and BrainCore’s dynamic neurofeedback therapy,click here today.