Biofeedback Volume 45: Issue 1

Biofeedback is an objective, computer-aided modality of investigation and treatment of a number of health-related conditions. The conditions comprise several pathologic conditions described in the International Classification of Diseases and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders systems.

Biofeedback offers an objective and measurable investigation of several components of the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, and skeletal muscle. It also offers an objective and measurable means of rehabilitation or re-education for the treatment of a large number of conditions. With proper protocols, the treatments offer generally long-term results—either complete remission or major improvement of symptoms. It is noninvasive and

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a medical index for morbidity and wellness. Lower HRV accompanies many illnesses; high HRV accompanies healthy states, resilience, and optimal functioning. Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRVB) uses real-time electronic feedback of the moment-to-moment changes in HRV to train patients to produce increases in HRV. Outcome studies on HRVB have shown therapeutic benefit for a wide variety of medical and mental health disorders. Lehrer and colleagues have published evidence-based protocols for HRV assessment and HRV treatment. Here, the authors review outcome studies on a sampling of common disorders: asthma, chronic muscle pain, depression, heart failure, hypertension, and posttraumatic stress disorder. HRVB offers promising therapeutic benefit for any medical or mental health disorder known to be accompanied by autonomic nervous system dysregulation.

Surface electromyography, if used correctly, can be helpful in restoring lost function after a stroke or head injury. This article explains the basis for quantitative surface electromyography (QSEMG). QSEMG does not target discrete muscles; it targets a constellation of muscles in order to restore function.

This article briefly describes a cardiorespiratory type of biofeedback called heart rate variability biofeedback. The rationale for the technique is outlined and the protocol described. Gevirtz (2013) has reviewed the HRVB outcome literature up to 2013. For a more theoretical paper see Lehrer & Gevirtz (2014).

Special Issue: What Physicians Should Know About Biofeedback

The Application of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback to Medical and Mental Health Disorders

What Physicians Need to Know About Surface Electromyography

Autonomic Mediation of Stress-Related and Anxiety Disorders Using Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback

Gaming Addiction

History

Neurofeedback as a Potential Nonpharmacological Treatment for Insomnia

Inhale to Breathe Away Pelvic Floor Pain and Enjoy Intercourse

ABSTRACTS: Abstracts of Papers Presented at the 54th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback

ABSTRACTS: Abstracts of Posters Presented at the 54th Annual Scientific Meeting of AAPB

MEMORIAL: Eleanor Criswell-Hanna, 1938–2024

SPECIAL ISSUE: Lessons Learned: A Pilot Study on the Feasibility of Using Biofeedback Monitoring in a Remote Setting with Special Forces Veterans in Saipan

SPECIAL ISSUE: The ACT of Biofeedback—Training for Psychological Flexibility