Physiological mechanisms of temperature biofeedback.

Abstract

Research on the physiological mechanisms of finger temperature biofeedback with normal subjects and Raynaud's disease patients is reviewed. Studies conducted in the author's laboratory have shown that feedback-induced vasodilation is mediated through a non-neural, beta-adrenergic mechanism rather than through reductions in sympathetic nervous system activation. In contrast, feedback-induced vasoconstriction is mediated through the traditional, sympathetic nervous pathway. When used with primary Raynaud's disease patients, feedback-induced vasodilation has achieved reductions in reported symptom frequency ranging from 66% to 92% in controlled investigations. Future research directions are discussed.

• Authors: R R Freedman
• Journal: Biofeedback and self-regulation (Biofeedback Self Regul) Vol. 16 Issue 2 Pg. 95-115 (Jun 1991) ISSN: 0363-3586 [Print] United States
• PMID: 1854864 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S., Review)

Topics

• Biofeedback, Psychology
• Body Temperature
• Fingers (blood supply)
• Humans
• Raynaud Disease (physiopathology, therapy)
• Reference Values
• Vasodilation (physiology)