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Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) Mar 2016Falls and fall-induced injuries are major global public health problems. Balance and gait disorders have been the second leading cause of falls. Inertial motion sensors... (Review)
Review
Falls and fall-induced injuries are major global public health problems. Balance and gait disorders have been the second leading cause of falls. Inertial motion sensors and force sensors have been widely used to monitor both static and dynamic balance performance. Based on the detected performance, instant visual, auditory, electrotactile and vibrotactile biofeedback could be provided to augment the somatosensory input and enhance balance control. This review aims to synthesize the research examining the effect of biofeedback systems, with wearable inertial motion sensors and force sensors, on balance performance. Randomized and non-randomized clinical trials were included in this review. All studies were evaluated based on the methodological quality. Sample characteristics, device design and study characteristics were summarized. Most previous studies suggested that biofeedback devices were effective in enhancing static and dynamic balance in healthy young and older adults, and patients with balance and gait disorders. Attention should be paid to the choice of appropriate types of sensors and biofeedback for different intended purposes. Maximizing the computing capacity of the micro-processer, while minimizing the size of the electronic components, appears to be the future direction of optimizing the devices. Wearable balance-improving devices have their potential of serving as balance aids in daily life, which can be used indoors and outdoors.
Topics: Accidental Falls; Biofeedback, Psychology; Gait; Humans; Monitoring, Ambulatory; Motion; Postural Balance
PubMed: 27023558
DOI: 10.3390/s16040434 -
Perceptual and Motor Skills Aug 2021A growing body of research has addressed the application of movement-based biofeedback techniques for improving sports performers' gross motor skills. Unlike in previous...
A growing body of research has addressed the application of movement-based biofeedback techniques for improving sports performers' gross motor skills. Unlike in previous research, we aimed in this study to quantify the effects of this "external" biofeedback on selected performance and technique variables for the boxing jab among both novices and experts. The technical setup included two inertial measurement units linked wirelessly to a video game system with audio output. The units were configured to provide auditory external biofeedback, based on the peak acceleration of the bag (i.e., biofeedback with an external attentional focus). Sixteen participants (8 novices and 8 experts) performed boxing jabs against the bag in blocked phases of biofeedback. When compared to baseline, the acute effects of externally focused biofeedback on peak bag acceleration were possibly positive in both retention phases for novices (d = 0.29; d = 0.41) and likely positive for experts (d = 0.41; d = 0.30), respectively. The experts' performance improvements were accompanied by substantive increases in trunk rotation, though this was not true for the novices. Thus, technique improvements can be promoted indirectly via externally focused biofeedback, but only when these actions are within the performers' motor repertoire. Overall, biofeedback via inertial sensors appears to be a potent technique for modifying human movement patterns in both experts and novices. This low-cost technology could be used to support training across sports, rehabilitation and human-computer interactions.
Topics: Attention; Biofeedback, Psychology; Boxing; Humans; Movement; Sports
PubMed: 33940988
DOI: 10.1177/00315125211013251 -
World Journal of Gastroenterology Nov 2006Dyssynergic defecation is one of the most common forms of functional constipation both in children and adults; it is defined by incomplete evacuation of fecal material... (Review)
Review
Dyssynergic defecation is one of the most common forms of functional constipation both in children and adults; it is defined by incomplete evacuation of fecal material from the rectum due to paradoxical contraction or failure to relax pelvic floor muscles when straining to defecate. This is believed to be a behavioral disorder because there are no associated morphological or neurological abnormalities, and consequently biofeedback training has been recommended for treatment. Biofeedback involves the use of pressure measurements or averaged electromyographic activity within the anal canal to teach patients how to relax pelvic floor muscles when straining to defecate. This is often combined with teaching the patient more appropriate techniques for straining (increasing intra-abdominal pressure) and having the patient practice defecating a water filled balloon. In adults, randomized controlled trials show that this form of biofeedback is more effective than laxatives, general muscle relaxation exercises (described as sham biofeedback), and drugs to relax skeletal muscles. Moreover, its effectiveness is specific to patients who have dyssynergic defecation and not slow transit constipation. However, in children, no clear superiority for biofeedback compared to laxatives has been demonstrated. Based on three randomized controlled studies in the last two years, biofeedback appears to be the preferred treatment for dyssynergic defecation in adults.
Topics: Adult; Ataxia; Biofeedback, Psychology; Child; Constipation; Defecation; Humans; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 17131466
DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i44.7069 -
Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Mar 2022Over the past decades, virtual reality (VR) has found its way into biofeedback (BF) therapy programs. Using VR promises to overcome challenges encountered in traditional... (Review)
Review
Over the past decades, virtual reality (VR) has found its way into biofeedback (BF) therapy programs. Using VR promises to overcome challenges encountered in traditional BF such as low treatment motivation, low attentional focus and the difficulty of transferring learnt abilities to everyday life. Yet, a comprehensive research synthesis is still missing. Hence, this scoping review aims to provide an overview over empirical studies on VR based BF regarding key outcomes, included samples, used soft- and hardware, BF parameters, mode of application and potential limitations. We systematically searched Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Open Grey for empirical research. Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Samples mostly consisted of healthy (44.4%) and/or adult (77.7%) participants. Outcomes were mainly anxiety (44.4%), stress (44.4%) or pain reduction (11.1%), which were reduced by the VR-BF interventions at least as much as by classical BF. Participants in VR-BF interventions showed higher motivation and involvement as well as a better user experience. Heart rate or heart rate variability were the most frequently used BF parameters (50.0%), and most VR-BF interventions (72.2%) employed a natural environment (e.g., island). Currently, there is no clear evidence that VR-BF is more effective than traditional BF. Yet, results indicate that VR-BF may have advantages regarding motivation, user experience, involvement and attentional focus. Further research is needed to assess the specific impact of VR and gamification. Also, testing a broader range of clinical and younger samples would allow more far-reaching conclusions.
Topics: Adult; Anxiety; Anxiety Disorders; Attention; Biofeedback, Psychology; Humans; Virtual Reality
PubMed: 34860290
DOI: 10.1007/s10484-021-09529-9 -
The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine 1979This paper reviews biofeedback research from the perspective of cybernetic/feedback theory and applies the theory to the behavioral treatment of psychosomatic disorders.... (Review)
Review
This paper reviews biofeedback research from the perspective of cybernetic/feedback theory and applies the theory to the behavioral treatment of psychosomatic disorders. The concept of disregulation is used to elucidate how environmental factors can modulate the central nervous system and effect homeostatic, self-regulatory control of peripheral organs. When feedback from peripheral organs is disrupted, it is hypothesized that disregulation occurs, leading to physiological instability and functional disease. Within this framework, biofeedback provides a new feedback loop that can help individuals regain physiological self-control. Basic research using biofeedback to enhance self-regulation of cardiovascular responses is reviewed. The use of biofeedback in the behavioral treatment of disorders such as tension and migraine headache, hypertension, and epilepsy are selectively reviewed and critically evaluated. The need to consider feedback mechanisms in behavioral and biomedical approaches to treatment is highlighted. Predictions regarding the potential inadvertent perpetuation of disregulation and disease through inappropriate biomedical intervention is also considered.
Topics: Behavior Therapy; Biofeedback, Psychology; Brain; Electroencephalography; Environment; Humans; Muscles; Psychophysiologic Disorders
PubMed: 395767
DOI: No ID Found -
Journal of Neuro-ophthalmology : the... Sep 2019Migraine is a chronic disabling neurologic condition that can be treated with a combination of both pharmacologic and complementary and integrative health options. (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Migraine is a chronic disabling neurologic condition that can be treated with a combination of both pharmacologic and complementary and integrative health options.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION
With the growing interest in the US population in the use of nonpharmacologic treatments, we reviewed the evidence for supplements and behavioral interventions used for migraine prevention.
RESULTS
Supplements reviewed included vitamins, minerals, and certain herbal preparations. Behavioral interventions reviewed included cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, relaxation, the third-wave therapies, acupuncture, hypnosis, and aerobic exercise.
CONCLUSIONS
This article should provide an appreciation for the wide range of nonpharmacologic therapies that might be offered to patients in place of or in addition to migraine-preventive medications.
Topics: Acupuncture Therapy; Biofeedback, Psychology; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Complementary Therapies; Dietary Supplements; Exercise Therapy; Humans; Migraine Disorders
PubMed: 31403967
DOI: 10.1097/WNO.0000000000000841 -
Journal of Neuroengineering and... Dec 2010An effective application of biofeedback for interventions in older adults with balance and mobility disorders may be compromised due to co-morbidity. (Review)
Review
CONTEXT
An effective application of biofeedback for interventions in older adults with balance and mobility disorders may be compromised due to co-morbidity.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the feasibility and the effectiveness of biofeedback-based training of balance and/or mobility in older adults.
DATA SOURCES
PubMed (1950-2009), EMBASE (1988-2009), Web of Science (1945-2009), the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (1960-2009), CINAHL (1982-2009) and PsycINFO (1840-2009). The search strategy was composed of terms referring to biofeedback, balance or mobility, and older adults. Additional studies were identified by scanning reference lists.
STUDY SELECTION
For evaluating effectiveness, 2 reviewers independently screened papers and included controlled studies in older adults (i.e. mean age equal to or greater than 60 years) if they applied biofeedback during repeated practice sessions, and if they used at least one objective outcome measure of a balance or mobility task.
DATA EXTRACTION
Rating of study quality, with use of the Physiotherapy Evidence Database rating scale (PEDro scale), was performed independently by the 2 reviewers. Indications for (non)effectiveness were identified if 2 or more similar studies reported a (non)significant effect for the same type of outcome. Effect sizes were calculated.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS
Although most available studies did not systematically evaluate feasibility aspects, reports of high participation rates, low drop-out rates, absence of adverse events and positive training experiences suggest that biofeedback methods can be applied in older adults. Effectiveness was evaluated based on 21 studies, mostly of moderate quality. An indication for effectiveness of visual feedback-based training of balance in (frail) older adults was identified for postural sway, weight-shifting and reaction time in standing, and for the Berg Balance Scale. Indications for added effectiveness of applying biofeedback during training of balance, gait, or sit-to-stand transfers in older patients post-stroke were identified for training-specific aspects. The same applies for auditory feedback-based training of gait in older patients with lower-limb surgery.
IMPLICATIONS
Further appropriate studies are needed in different populations of older adults to be able to make definitive statements regarding the (long-term) added effectiveness, particularly on measures of functioning.
Topics: Aged; Biofeedback, Psychology; Gait Disorders, Neurologic; Humans; Middle Aged; Movement; Physical Therapy Modalities; Postural Balance
PubMed: 21143921
DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-7-58 -
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine Jul 2010Biofeedback-related approaches to headache therapy fall into two broad categories: general biofeedback techniques (often augmented by relaxation-based strategies) and... (Review)
Review
Biofeedback-related approaches to headache therapy fall into two broad categories: general biofeedback techniques (often augmented by relaxation-based strategies) and methods linked more directly to the pathophysiology underlying headache. The use of general biofeedback-assisted relaxation techniques for headache has been evaluated extensively by expert panels and meta-analyses. Taken together, these reviews indicate that (1) various forms of biofeedback are effective for migraine and tension-type headache; (2) outcomes with biofeedback rival outcomes with medication therapy; (3) combining biofeedback with medication can enhance outcomes; and (4) despite efficacy in many patients, biofeedback fails to bring significant relief to a sizeable number of headache patients. Biofeedback methods that more directly target headache pathophysiology have focused chiefly on migraine. These headache-specific approaches include blood volume pulse biofeedback, which has considerable supportive evidence, and electroencephalographic feedback.
Topics: Biofeedback, Psychology; Electromyography; Headache; Humans; Migraine Disorders; Patient Preference; Relaxation Therapy; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 20622082
DOI: 10.3949/ccjm.77.s3.13 -
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) Aug 2023In the modern world, stress has become a pervasive concern that affects individuals' physical and mental well-being. To address this issue, many wearable devices have... (Review)
Review
In the modern world, stress has become a pervasive concern that affects individuals' physical and mental well-being. To address this issue, many wearable devices have emerged as potential tools for stress detection and management by measuring heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and various metrics related to it. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of existing research on HRV tracking and biofeedback using smartwatches pairing with reliable 3rd party mobile apps like Elite HRV, Welltory, and HRV4Training specifically designed for stress detection and management. We apply various algorithms and methodologies employed for HRV analysis and stress detection including time-domain, frequency-domain, and non-linear analysis techniques. Prominent smartwatches, such as Apple Watch, Garmin, Fitbit, Polar, and Samsung Galaxy Watch, are evaluated based on their HRV measurement accuracy, data quality, sensor technology, and integration with stress management features. We describe the efficacy of smartwatches in providing real-time stress feedback, personalized stress management interventions, and promoting overall well-being. To assist researchers, doctors, and developers with using smartwatch technology to address stress and promote holistic well-being, we discuss the data's advantages and limitations, future developments, and the significance of user-centered design and personalized interventions.
Topics: Humans; Heart Rate; Algorithms; Benchmarking; Biofeedback, Psychology; Technology
PubMed: 37687769
DOI: 10.3390/s23177314 -
Neural Plasticity 2021This article is aimed at showing the current level of evidence for the usage of biofeedback and neurofeedback to treat depression along with a detailed review of the... (Review)
Review
This article is aimed at showing the current level of evidence for the usage of biofeedback and neurofeedback to treat depression along with a detailed review of the studies in the field and a discussion of rationale for utilizing each protocol. La Vaque et al. criteria endorsed by the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback and International Society for Neuroregulation & Research were accepted as a means of study evaluation. Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback was found to be moderately supportable as a treatment of MDD while outcome measure was a subjective questionnaire like Beck Depression Inventory (level 3/5, "probably efficacious"). Electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback protocols, namely, alpha-theta, alpha, and sensorimotor rhythm upregulation, all qualify for level 2/5, "possibly efficacious." Frontal alpha asymmetry protocol also received limited evidence of effect in depression (level 2/5, "possibly efficacious"). Finally, the two most influential real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) neurofeedback protocols targeting the amygdala and the frontal cortices both demonstrate some effectiveness, though lack replications (level 2/5, "possibly efficacious"). Thus, neurofeedback specifically targeting depression is moderately supported by existing studies (all fit level 2/5, "possibly efficacious"). The greatest complication preventing certain protocols from reaching higher evidence levels is a relatively high number of uncontrolled studies and an absence of accurate replications arising from the heterogeneity in protocol details, course lengths, measures of improvement, control conditions, and sample characteristics.
Topics: Biofeedback, Psychology; Depressive Disorder; Electroencephalography; Frontal Lobe; Heart Rate; Humans; Neurofeedback; Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia
PubMed: 33613671
DOI: 10.1155/2021/8878857