An everyday example of biofeedback can simplify this concept. When we step on a scale, we get information (“feedback”) about how much we weigh. We may then use this information to alter our eating and exercise habits to lose weight. The feedback leads to awareness, which then allows us to voluntarily control our weight. Likewise, the measurements taken with professional biofeedback help us become aware of the way our body responds to challenging conditions (eg. stress, competition, worry) and teaches us how to gain control over these reactions.
Biofeedback offers an effective non-pharmacological treatment approach for many conditions, including anxiety, pain, stress and stress-related disorders, such as headache, TMJ, hypertension, and insomnia. It is also highly successful in helping individuals attain peak performance in athletics, performing arts, business, and academics. Studies support biofeedback as an effective therapy and it is endorsed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).