special subjects
Biofeedback
Introduction
Biofeedback, a type of Mind-Body Medicine , is a method of bringing unconscious biologic processes under conscious control. In biofeedback, electronic devices are used to measure and report information about unconscious processes (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension) to the conscious mind. With the help of a therapist or with training, people then can understand why these functions change and can learn how to regulate them, thereby lessening the effects of conditions such as pain, stress, insomnia, and headaches. There are many different types of biofeedback, including heart rate variability biofeeedback and neurofeedback, which specifically monitors brain activity. (See also 