Neurofeedback is simply a type of biofeedback. Biofeedback uses technology to detect subtle physiological measures of bodily function and amplify them so that they are readily perceived by the patient. Heart rhythms, breathing patterns, blood flow and skin conductance are just some of the measures that can be coupled with instruments to provide biofeedback. These measures, brought under the control of a patient, can provide relief from stress, anxiety, pain or other medical disorders.

 

Biofeedback treatment has been available in hospitals, clinics and doctor's offices for nearly 50 years. It has been a reliable adjunct to medical and psychiatric services. A more recent form pf biofeedback, Neurofeedback, amplifies brain waves and then uses operant conditioning to create benefitial changes in the autonomic nervous system of the patient.

 

After decades of research at such institutions as UCLA, The University of Tennessee and NASA, this new method of treating emotional, behavioral and medical disorders is finally becoming more readily available to the public. It is a potent and yet easy to learn method for obtaining relief from distressing symptoms and disabling disorders.

 

 

Sensors are attached with paste to the patient's scalp. These sensors allow for the direct observation of brain waves on a computer screen. Changes in these brain waves are then fed back to the patient in dynamic visual and auditory displays (via a simple video game!). The patient then learns to make changes in the game's display by concentrating their attention on the video game. As they make changes on the screen, they are simultaneously making changes in their brain waves!