Neurofeedback

How does a biofeedback program work?

Typically, sensors are applied to the scalp to measure activity in different areas of the brain. This information is recorded and displayed in a form that can be displayed on a monitor. The biofeedback therapist can coach the client toward more desirable electrical patterns. In Neurotherapy brain wave activity is monitored, displayed, and fed back to the client to help reregulate irregular brain activity. Armed with this data and guided imagery, the biofeedback therapist can help direct the patient toward more desirable brainwave patterns. In many cases, the biofeedback therapist and client work together to decrease activity in the slow-moving Theta wave range (4-7hz) and increase activity in the faster-moving Beta wave range (15-18hz).

Relax, you're in control

Biofeedback relaxation is a key component of the biofeedback philosophy and is central to most effective recoveries. One of the problems many people face is that they have trouble recognizing what a relaxed state feels like, at least one that is not induced by drugs or alcohol. Since they don't know or can't identify genuine relaxation, they have no model on which to build. For these people, a heavy dose of Alpha wave training may be the route to a more peaceful daily existence. Alpha wave production is associated with feelings of openness and calmness. Perhaps that's why biofeedback therapy works so well for people with anxiety and panic attacks.

A breath of fresh air

Since breathing and relaxation go hand in hand, better control of respiration is one way biofeedback helps bring down elevated heart rates and high blood pressure. Individuals learn techniques they can use on their own to avoid reacting to situations in harmful preprogrammed ways. In a sense, a person is reprogramming his/her brain to respond in ways that don't make their system go haywire. Often, yoga and other centering techniques like meditation are used in conjunction with biofeedback therapy to enhance results.

Patients visit us from Northwest Suburban and Chicago Northshore, Northbrook, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Hoffman Estates, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect and Glenview in Cook County, IL. To learn more about neurofeedback/biofeedback or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, please call our office at 847.298.6446 or use our online Request an Appointment form. For additional information on any condition, treatment or procedure, please visit our Health Library.