Biofeedback Supplies and Technology
What supplies do you need to have to use biofeedback technology? Some biofeedback modalities require little or no supplies while others require consumable supplies that you need a ready inventory of.
A Plethysmograph (PPG) sensor which is used to measure Heart Rate, Blood Volume, and Heart Rate variability may use a clip or Velcro band that is permanently attached to the sensor. In this case, there would be no replaceable supplies needed.
The Electrocardiograph (EKG) sensor measures Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability. The EKG sensor uses adhesive disposable sensors that stick to the skin and snap or clip to the electrode cable. These usually come in packages of 50 – 300. Alcohol prep pads are used to clean the skin before applying the sensors.
Temperature biofeedback sensors either use a Velcro band to attach to the finger or you can use paper or cloth tape. If you use Velcro then you don’t have to replace it very often. If you are using tape, then you need to keep a supply.
For Skin Conductance/EDR/GSR, you should be using sensor cream or gel that comes in a tube or bottle.
You only use a small amount each time so a tube or bottle lasts a long time.
Electromyograph (EMG) uses 2 or 3 adhesive disposable electrodes similar to the EKG sensor. These are placed on the skin over the muscle area that you want to record from. You also need alcohol prep pads to clean the skin before applying the sensors.
The Respiration sensor uses a belt that goes around the abdomen or chest. It attaches with either Velcro or a clip. There aren’t any supplies needed.
The Electroencephalograph (EEG) requires several supplies. Alcohol prep pads, gauze pads, abrasive skin prepping solution, and conductive EEG paste are all used for EEG/neurofeedback. When an EEG cap is used you also need EEG gel. You might also use small adhesive, cushioned pads for forehead electrodes on the cap. The individual EEG electrode leads and even the caps are not disposable but do eventually need to be replaced. There are some disposable EEG electrodes and electrode lead combinations that can be used with some equipment.
The Capnographbiofeedback device measures CO2 in the air that is exhaled into a tube. A disposable cannula is connected to the tube on one end and to the nostrils on the other end. Since a new cannula is used for each subject, it is necessary to have a supply of these on hand.
This concludes my review of the supplies that are needed for use with biofeedback technology.
I hope it has been helpful.
Harry L. Campbell
914-762-4646 – Harry@biofeedbackinternational.com
Author of What Stress Can Do, Available on Amazon.com
Biofeedback Resources International Corp.
