Biofeedback is enjoying a resurgence in many specialist fields and is regarded as a modern, body-centred therapeutic method – yet persistent myths continue to circulate. Some sound spectacular, others are off-putting. Time for a reality check!
Here are the 7 biggest myths about biofeedback – and what you, as a professional, really need to know about them:
Myth 1: „Biofeedback is just pseudoscience with wires.“
Fact: Biofeedback is not a matter of faith, but an evidence-based method of applied psychophysiology. Physiological signals – such as breathing, heart rate variability, muscle tension or brain waves – are recorded using medically certified sensors, visualised and specifically trained. Its effectiveness has been scientifically proven in numerous studies – including for anxiety disorders, chronic pain, ADHD and functional symptoms (an overview and references can be found here).
Myth 2: „The computer does it – I, as the therapist, play no part.“
Fact: The computer provides objective data – but it is the specialist who designs the therapy. The actual effect is achieved through targeted guidance, contextualisation and support in applying the techniques to everyday life. Therapists remain central to the process – biofeedback enhances their effectiveness, but does not replace them. Biofeedback is a tool – and you are the key to its successful application.
Myth 3: „That’s only for people with mental health conditions.“
Fact: Biofeedback is also effective for physical ailments. Indications range from High blood pressure, Migraine, Irritable bowel syndrome and chronic pain up to Incontinence and muscle imbalances.
Myth 4: „It takes ages to see any results.“
Fact: Quite the opposite: thanks to the live feedback on the screen, patients can see within seconds how their breathing, muscle tension or heart activity changes – for example, when they consciously relax or change their way of thinking. This immediate feedback motivates them and promotes self-efficacy. Clinically relevant functional improvements are often evident after just a few sessions – depending on the indication and setting, 5 to 20 sessions are usually sufficient.
Myth 5: „That’s far too complicated for my practice.“
Fact: Modern biofeedback systems are designed for ease of use. Once you have learnt how to use them, frequently used training protocols can be quickly applied as part of a treatment programme. Many therapists report that, after a short period of familiarisation, biofeedback can even make everyday life easier.
Myth 6: „My patients won’t go along with it anyway.“
Fact: Biofeedback inspires many people – precisely because it makes the invisible visible. Particularly for those with chronic illnesses, young people or those suffering greatly, this real-time feedback acts as a ‘lightbulb moment’ and helps where words or medication alone are not enough. The feedback displayed on the screen promotes understanding, motivation and adherence – even where there is initial scepticism. In many cases, the biofeedback training even becomes the highlight of the session.
Myth 7: „Biofeedback allows you to read minds.“
Fact: No – biofeedback does not measure thoughts, but rather physiological processes. It shows how the body reacts to thoughts, feelings and stimuli – for example, through changes in heart rate or muscle tone. This is precisely where the therapeutic potential lies: patients learn to understand their bodies better and to regulate them in a targeted way. But what someone is thinking? That remains a private matter until it is discussed during a therapeutic session.
Conclusion:
Biofeedback is not hocus-pocus, but an evidence-based method with great potential across many disciplines. It empowers patients, provides objective feedback and enhances any form of holistic therapy.
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