Neurofeedback

[Sharon]

I've been reading that neurofeedback can be used for many disorders:
neurological, physical, emotional and even for chronic pain.
Has anyone here tried it for autoimmune issues?

[Linda196]

I've used biofeedback for many years to manage the symptoms resulting from autoimmune disease. When I was initially learning the techniques, my pain management doctor did a few sessions with EEG monitoring so we could see the results, but I simply can't (or won't) afford the equipment required for home use neurofeedback, and once you've learned the biofeedback methods you can feel the results without having to see the brainwave confirmation. The end result of bio vs neuro-feedback is the same, it is just the method and the patients perception of result that differs. For example, I could correlate a feeling of warmth in my neck and head with a particular change in brainwave on the EEG, and a lightness in my legs and feet with another change, so when I experience those feelings, I know I've manage a change.

I'm careful to say the technique is good for managing symptoms, but in over 30 years I can't say it has had any affect on the disease process itself, because I don't know how it would have progressed otherwise. Biofeedback and massage are my primary pain relief. and I'm lucky to have a massage therapist who encourages the use of feedback during her massage.

[Joe S.]

The simplest biofeedback device is the digital thermometer. Using it you try to increase the temperature in your hands or fingers. This technique works good for migraine headaches. (Breath in "hot hands", Breath out "cool head").

Galvanic skin response devices are cheap (<$20). They are often used for bio-feedback. A VOM can be used for this type of biofeedback in a pinch. There are addon devices for your computer that allow you to use biofeedback as a game controller. A more expensive version allows you to use your brain to control object moving through a maze. The game was all the rage a decade ago.

[Sharon]

Linda- I've done biofeedback in the past and through it managed to prevent vertigo attacks I was having then. I am now interested in Neurofeedback since I read it actually trains the brain to work differently. My understanding was 30 sessions results in a lasting change.
I believe much of my triggering is trauma related- that's why I was thinking in this particular direction.

Joe- I don't have migraines. Do you have any techniques for other symptoms or just relaxation?

[Joe S.]

If you have a way to measure a symptom, then you should be able to use a form of bio-feedback or meditation to modify that symptom. You can use a blood pressure cup to lower your blood pressure. I have used meditation to change blood pressure and heart rate in the past. My results are temporary. But they really impress the doctors.

Meditation saved me when the doctor forgot nova cane during a root canal. Similar experience during an operation for ingrown toe nail.