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1. I'm currently on medication for the same condition for which I'm seeking biofeedback therapy. Will biofeedback take the place of these drugs?

   It might, but this can't be decided without careful evaluation of your condition and only in conjunction with your physician. Biofeedback is another tool for you to use. Some people discover that they are able to stop taking certain medications once they master biofeedback. Your medication will be continued until such time as you demonstrate you no longer need medication, or it is safe to change your dosage. When you learn to control your symptoms, only then may your physician eliminate your medication.

2. I don't really want to try biofeedback, but my doctor says it might help. I don't believe her. Do I need to try?

   Trying one session might change your mind, but it doesn't commit you to further sessions. After one session you can decide whether to continue. If, after this first session, you are still reluctant, then discuss it with your therapist or referring health care professional. Biofeedback may not be for you.

3. I called a biofeedback therapist and she said that I needed to have my regular health care professional check out my symptoms first. Why?

   Biofeedback is never recommended for unevaluated symptoms. For instance, if you have insomnia or chronic pain, that could be a symptom of another condition. And biofeedback, by itself, is not appropriate for many conditions. You need to know what's wrong before you seek treatment.

4. I see at-home biofeedback equipment advertised on the Web. Should I try that?

   No. Most experts agree that for biofeedback to work, you need to work with a trained therapist.

5. Biofeedback is considered an alternative therapy. Does that mean it's somehow spiritual?

   The elements of health are considered to involve mind, body and spirit. In this instance, spirit relates to an inner sense of well-being, not to anything religious in nature. However, if you wish to investigate deeper into a spiritual connection, you should find a therapist proficient in this area.

   Biofeedback therapy, therefore, can be as inclusive as necessary in bringing a healthy balance into your life. This involves scientifically measuring specific physiological reactions, which occur as you participate in your life. Take, for instance, high blood pressure. Biofeedback therapy increases your awareness of your blood pressure. As you think different thoughts or practice various relaxation techniques, you can see the results on the monitor or hear them via sounds from the computer. Eventually, you learn what to do to lower your blood pressure.

6. What do the machines do? What will it feel like?

   The equipment merely monitors physiological changes and feeds them back to you. The machines transform the data into images, sounds, or digital information, allowing you to monitor your body's changes. You won't feel anything except the electrodes being attached to the surface of your skin and removed.