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If you're interested in biofeedback, talk to your doctor. Many psychologists, physical therapists and other health professionals are trained in biofeedback. © iStockphoto.com/Frances TwittyThinking about a hair transplant for baldness or thinning hair? Here are some things you'll need to keep in mind. More>>
By Lila Havens, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth
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Anyone who has migraines knows how intense and disabling they can be. Medicines help many people with migraine, but they can have side effects. Certain medications may not be safe for some migraine sufferers, such as children, heart patients, or women who are pregnant or nursing. Even the most effective medicines simply don't work well for some people.
In their search for ways to prevent migraines, doctors have investigated mind-body therapies, such as biofeedback. Some studies have found that for some people, biofeedback works as well as medicine to treat migraine. Combining biofeedback with relaxation or stress-reduction training may provide even better results.
How does biofeedback work?
Biofeedback teaches you to control certain functions that your body normally does on its own. For example, some people can lower their blood pressure, relax their muscles or reduce their level of pain through biofeedback.
One type of biofeedback used for migraines focuses on increasing blood flow. This is called thermal biofeedback. The therapist attaches sensors to your hands. The sensors measure skin temperature, which is a sign of blood flow to the skin. Guided by the therapist, you concentrate on raising your skin temperature slightly. You watch a monitor to see how well you are doing.
It usually takes about 10 to 15 sessions to learn biofeedback. Once you have learned the technique, you can continue to practice it on your own.
Doctors aren't exactly sure why biofeedback works. They do know that stress is a common migraine trigger. Biofeedback may work in part by helping a person relax and reduce stress.
Who can use biofeedback?
Anyone can use biofeedback. It's a safe technique without any known risks or side effects.
Biofeedback may be a good idea if:
Where can I learn biofeedback?
If you're interested in biofeedback, talk to your doctor. Many psychologists, physical therapists and other health professionals are trained in biofeedback.
Most states don't regulate the practice of biofeedback, so anyone can claim to do it. Look for a provider who has been certified by the Biofeedback Certification Institute of America (BICA). You can search for a BICA-certified provider in your area on the Web site at http://www.bcia.org/.
It's a good idea to check with your insurance company to find out if it will pay for biofeedback. Because of the number of sessions required, it can be expensive.
View the original Treating migraines: can biofeedback help? article on myOptumHealth.com
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