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About John T. | Message Board | Stress Relief Tips | Gulf Coast Health Sevices | Stress and Distress | Intro Page . |
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BIOFEEDBACK
What is Biofeedback?
With biofeedback you can teach yourself to control bodily functions that normally occur automatically. Breathing, for example, can be slowed and deepened to reduce stress and aid in the management of stress-related illness. Clinical biofeedback utilizes sensitive equipment to measure muscle tension or skin temperature, with no discomfort to the patient.
How can Biofeedback help me?
For headaches, biofeedback is combined with relaxation therapy to help loosen tense muscles around the neck and scalp. Chronic pain sufferers may benefit by learning to release the muscle tension that causes spasms that prolong and intensify back or joint pain (muscle guarding). Diabetics may improve circulation to extremities and learn to control the stress reaction that complicates diabetes. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be controlled with biofeedback and the use of mental imaging techniques. These same techniques have proven effective in the management of hypertension, TMJ, asthma, arthritis, fibromyalgia…and more.
Panic attacks and other anxiety disorders yield to a combination of biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and (if necessary) medication. The regular use of relaxation tapes at home can help strengthen the relaxation response and minimize the need for medication. Phobias, obsessions, and post-traumatic stress (PTSD) are also managed best with a combination of CBT, relaxation, and medication.
Who can refer me for biofeedback treatment?
Both Primary Care Physicians and Specialists refer patients for biofeedback treatment. Since it is estimated that 60 to 90 percent of all visits to doctors are for stress-related illness, such referrals are usually appropriate.
Where can I find biofeedback treatment?
Biofeedback is performed in the offices of Gulf Coast Health Services by John Thielges, M.A., CSM. John has utilized biofeedback techniques in behavioral medicine for over twenty-five years. The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America nationally certifies John as a Stress Management Educator. Membership in the American Academy of Pain Management and the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association assure his continued expertise.
About John T. | Message Board | Stress Relief Tips
| Gulf Coast Health Sevices | Stress and Distress | Intro Page
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