Micro-Computers In Biofeedback

Biofeedback training can be viewed from a control theory perspective. The body has internal control and feedback pathways. In certain diseases these pathways are malfunctioning, but control can be enhanced if an external pathway for information is provided. Self-control can be trained using the external feedback as a guide, but the signals are noisy and very loosely coupled. The shaping procedures used in the training are complicated and must be tailored to each trainee and, due to the newness of these techniques, careful data analysis must be done for both behavioral input and physiological input to ascertain that the results were due to physiological training. A computer driven system can best sequence and control these functions.