What is biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a safe, non-invasive treatment that helps individuals learn how to control bodily processes more effectively. It is based on principles of the mind-body interaction.

Biofeedback involves the use of real-time information that allows you to become more aware of and learn how to gain control over bodily processes that you once considered automatic, such as breathing rate, muscle tension, or skin temperature.

What is biofeedback used to treat?

Biofeedback has been found to effectively treat a wide variety of conditions including: chronic pain, migraine and tension headaches, arthritis, high blood pressure, temporomandibular disorders, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, stress management, anxiety symptoms, and insomnia.

What is a biofeedback session like?

Biofeedback sessions last about 50 minutes. Visits typically involve discussing the symptoms you have experienced over the past week with your clinician. Sensors are applied to your body, and through the use of visual or auditory feedback, you will learn how to become more aware of physiological responses that are related to many medical conditions. The ultimate goal is to learn how to produce positive physiological responses (e.g., reducing muscle tension) on your own, without using the biofeedback equipment.

What if I would like more information or to schedule an appointment?

If you are interested in scheduling an intake for biofeedback services and/or would like more information please call the Health Psychology Service at 312-355-3463 . In many cases, commercial insurance and Medicare will cover biofeedback services.

NOTE: Please check with your healthcare provider if you have a medical or psychiatric condition (e.g., depression, psychosis, diabetes, or other endocrine disorders) to make sure that biofeedback treatment is appropriate for you.