biofeedback

[ bahy-oh-feed-bak ]

noun

1. a method of learning to control one's bodily functions by monitoring one's own brain waves, blood pressure, degree of muscle tension, etc.
2. the feedback thus obtained.

biofeedback

/ ˌbaɪəʊˈfiːdbæk /

noun

1. physiol psychol a technique for teaching the control of autonomic functions, such as the rate of heartbeat or breathing, by recording the activity and presenting it (usually visually) so that the person can know the state of the autonomic function he or she is learning to control Compare neurofeedback

biofeedback

/ bī′ō-fēd′băk′ /

1. The technique of using monitoring devices to obtain information about an involuntary function of the central or autonomic nervous system, such as body temperature or blood pressure, in order to gain some voluntary control over the function. Using biofeedback, individuals can be trained to respond to abnormal measurements in involuntary function with specific therapeutic actions, such as muscle relaxation, meditation, or changing breathing patterns. Biofeedback has been used to treat medical conditions such as hypertension and chronic anxiety.

biofeedback

1. A training technique by which a person learns how to regulate certain body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure , or brain wave patterns, that are normally considered to be involuntary. The person learns by watching special monitoring instruments attached to the body that record changes in these functions.

Notes

Biofeedback has had some success in the treatment of such disorders as chronic headaches and back pain.

Word History and Origins

Origin of biofeedback¹

First recorded in 1970–75; bio- + feedback

Example Sentences

If we were to get a biofeedback scan of our brain or have our aura photographed, what colors might we see, and would this be the human equivalent of tree rings?

From Los Angeles Times

The Games for Emotional and Mental Health Lab created a horror biofeedback game called MindLight that has been shown to reduce anxiety in children.

From Scientific American

Stress-reducing interventions, biofeedback and increased fitness can increase heart rate variability.

From Salon

Once you pushed it, the hover ladder randomly flitted in front of the shelves, using advanced biofeedback technology, heart-rate monitors, and complex algorithms to figure out what sort of story you might be interested in.

From Literature

Neurofeedback, also referred to as EEG biofeedback, teaches self-control of brain functions by measuring brain activity with sensors placed on the scalp.

From Seattle Times