Posted by Charlie S (12.39.92.129) on March 04, 2001 at 01:17:13:
In Reply to: I didnt understand how to do it(Biofeedback) posted by Dave (Ree's Dave) on March 03, 2001 at 16:35:47:
Dr. Wright explained to me that if one relaxes his or her hand and arm, and closes the eyes, all one needs to do is concentrate. Think or feel the blood warming your hands (It's the easiest sign that this is working) and try to keep this up throughout the attack. This takes a lot out of one but the effort is often worth it. It doesn't take special training. The doctor just explained what I posted and I added some of my own to it as I think it helps. We all have this very slight ability to alter our circulation. Just a slight retardation of the flow to this vessel is all this does and it sometimes works instantly and sometimes, it just seems damned ineffective. Still most of the time it has some effect.
There are other things I believe have the
same effect as the biofeedback. I know one man wrote in the guestbook that he stood on a cold concrete floor and it seemed to help. I can't help but think that by doing so, he caused increased circulation to his legs and feet. I suspect those who have success with exercise also have increased flow to the muscles and this probably has a similar result. This may simply ease the presure on the vessel and thereby the pain to some degree. I was able to about halve the duration of my attacks with this method from about 30-40 minutes to 15 or 20. Sometimes, when awake, if I felt that maybe one was beginning, I'd start this techinque and keep it up until I was certain no attack was going to grab on. Usually my face would feel warm or I'd feel a slight throbbing in my eye and that's all I'd need. I just relax my jaw and hold my left arm at my side and concentrate on keeping it warm and blood away from my head. It often worked. I haven't had to use it lately but I still practice it. Dr. Wright said it works best when we are young and have good circulation.
I know this got long and a little disjointed, but I get carried away.......
Stay well and email me if you like.
All the best,- - -Charlie Strand