A Primer of Biofeedback

The Primer of Biofeedback introduces the basic biofeedback paradigm and reviews commonly used biofeedback modalities, including muscle biofeedback, temperature biofeedback, electrodermal biofeedback, the electroencephalograph, respiratory biofeedback, and heart rate/heart rate variability biofeedback. Chapter 3 narrates the history of biofeedback development, and Chapter 4 describes practical approaches to preparing the patient for biofeedback training and conducting the initial assessment. Chapters 5 through 8 introduce four widely used models for biofeedback practice, including biofeedback-assisted relaxation training, breath training and respiratory biofeedback, heart rate variability training, and surface electromyography (EMG) biofeedback. Each of these chapters provides both background knowledge and detailed instructions on how we design and deliver biofeedback training within each of these models. Chapter 9 summarizes six useful adjunctive techniques that are frequently combined with biofeedback training. Chapter 10 provides an overview of ethical principles, professional conduct, and practice standards. Chapter 11 describes the advantages of becoming certified in biofeedback and gives an overview of the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance certification process. Appendix A provides a technical discussion of electrophysiological recording techniques for each biofeedback modality. Appendix B introduces basic concepts in infection risk and contagion and suggests practices in care and hygiene for biofeedback devices and sensors to minimize infection risk.