Some Peripheral Biofeedback Modules in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases in Children

Abstract

Biofeedback therapy is a non-drug treatment in which patients learn to control bodily processes that are normally involuntary, such as muscle tension, blood pressure, or heart rate. In this paper we present results obtained with Electro Dermal Response (EDR) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) applied as adjuvant therapy in chronic pediatric patients. The methodology can be used in scholar settings for stress reducing in pupils and teachers.

The evaluated group comprises children and adolescents with: a) cystic fibrosis (N = 40 mean age = 17.5 years ± 23.18 SD); b) bronchial asthma (N = 35, mean age = 11.5 years ± 18.84 SD); c) epilepsy (N = 45, mean age = 13.5 years ± 15.34 SD); and d) diabetes mellitus (N = 30, mean age = 12.5 years ± 12.3 SD).

Study showed that peripheral biofeedback is very helpful tool for chronic disorders in children. Both (EDR and HRV) methods confirmed changes on the stress level very significantly. This therapy is non-invasive, easy for application, children accept it with interest and it is cost-effective.