Biofeedback

What is biofeedback?

Biofeedback is technique used to train your mind to control the way your body works. It uses devices that guide people to consciously regulate body processes that normally are automatic. The National Center of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) groups biofeedback with other body-mind therapies such as hypnosis, meditation, and prayer. 

Can biofeedback help people with cancer?

Biofeedback has been shown to help patients reduce the severity and occurrence of headaches and chronic pain, but has not been found to affect cancer cells. 

How does biofeedback work?

During biofeedback, a person is monitored with electrodes that are connected to electronic equipment in place to measure breath rate, perspiration, skin temperature, blood pressure, and heartbeat. The results are displayed on a computer screen. Specific procedures or devices are used to measure each body change, including:

• electromyogram (EMG) - to measure muscle tension.
• electrodermal activity (EDA) - to measure changes in perspiration rate.
• finger pulse devices - to measure blood pressure and heartbeat.

Once the electronic devices record these body signals, a biofeedback technician may recommend physical and mental exercises designed to teach a person how to relax and change the functions being measured. Biofeedback technicians are trained and nationally certified.

Are there any possible problems or complications associated with biofeedback?

There are no known side effects of this therapy.

Biofeedback, as an addition to your cancer treatment plan, has the potential to be pleasant and productive, but should not replace the care and treatment provided by your cancer care team. Always consult your physician for more information.

Complementary Care for Cancer Patients
at Rush

The cancer integrative medicine program at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, has been designed to combine traditional cancer treatment methods with complementary therapies for cancer patients.

Qualified practitioners from Rush and the community work collaboratively with patients to address each patient’s unique needs in a gentle and compassionate manner. Care is provided either on the Rush campus or at other nearby locations.

For more information, visit the Cancer Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program home page.

Looking for Other Health Information?

• Visit our Health Information home page.
   
  or
   
  
• Visit Discover Rush’s Web Resource page to find articles on health topics and recent health news from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. You will also find many helpful links to other areas of our site.

Looking for a Doctor?

Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, is a leader in caring for people of all ages, from newborns through older adults.

Just phone (888) 352-RUSH or (888) 352-7874 for help finding the Rush doctor who’s right for you.