Biofeedback first became popular in the 1970s. It is still used today but it’s recognition glory days were in the 1970s. The thrust of biofeedback was to have your mind learn how to control your body’s reactions to things – e.g getting your muscles to relax and therefore helping one to relax.

Neurofeedback developed as a result of the biofeedback movement. It however is opposite to biofeedback in that it is structured to allow the body to “reprogram” a person’s brainwaves. Now that may sound a bit freaky, sci-fi and a lot like mind control – but it is not. The person who undergoes neurofeedback uses it as a tool to change patterns that are undesirable – e.g. depression, PTSD etc. Neurofeedback is being heralded by some as a viable way to keep ADHD children off of the usually prescribed drugs (although keep in mind since neurofeedback is still new in the research world, the medical world recommends that it be used in conjunction with the drugs – this is a touchy call for parents and professionals involved).

Remember, neurofeedback is the new kid on the block but researchers are very excited about the potential applications for which it can be used. Some practitioners have already tried it out with fibromyalgia patients. Even if it does not lead to a cure (and neither does lyrica) – relief and possibly long term relief would be phenomenal. Some ADHD patients after being treated have had very long term results without having to repeat treatment or take drugs.

Does this all sound to good to be true – well, there is a catch (sorry). Neurofeedback does not come cheap ($100/session average). It may or may not be covered by insurance. The sessions required for ADHD patients may be as many as 40 (ouch) – but if it indeed does give relief – this cost in terms of what it means to the quality of one’s life is nothing.

Here is a directory so that you can locate a neurofeedback practitioner near you :

http://directory.eeginfo.com/