Biofeedback is an alternative form of therapy that combines a variety of relaxation methods such as meditation and guided imagery with the use of instruments that monitors responses by the person to which the techniques are administered to.

This form of therapy, over time, teaches a person to consciously regulate many autonomic functions such as blood pressure, heart rate and other processes that were believed to be involuntary. Learning to regulate functions such as these, can help control a number of different problems, one of which being pain.

A biofeedback session consists of electrodes connected to a monitoring unit that are taped or attached to the skin using painless methods. Many different things including pulse, blood pressure, brain wave activity, muscle tension and skin temperature can be measured with this machine. The machine provides moment by moment feedback on the progress that one makes with regard to the techniques being administered. For example, if you were using relaxation to lower blood pressure, this machine can monitor your progress through sound or images.

While biofeedback has been effectively used to help control a number of varying heath problems, it is perhaps most recognized for its ability to treat headaches and migraines. In many cases, biofeedback has been used to successfully avert the onset of migraines. It has also been used to relive pain associated with TMJ syndrome and treat other injuries.

One thing to remember about biofeedback is that it is not a cure for stress. It simply measures it. But measuring one's stress safely and naturally is extremely important in controlling it.

Biofeedback sessions should be conducted synergistically with other therapies under the direction of a professional health care practitioner.