APPLICATION OF BIOFEEDBACK FOR THE REGULATION OF PAIN - A CRITICAL-REVIEW

A review of the biofeedback literature for the regulation of pain indicates both conceptual and methodological problems. In particular, studies on the use of biofeedback for the treatment of tension and migraine headaches and chronic pain indicate that biofeedback was not found to be superior to less expensive, less instrument-oriented treatments such as relaxation and coping skills training. The relative absence of needed control comparisons is noted, and the need for caution in promoting biofeedback is stressed. Suggestions for future research are offered. (2 p ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1979 American Psychological Association.