The impact of biofeedback in enhancing chronic pain rehabilitation A systematic review of mechanisms and outcomes

Abstract

Chronic pain (CP), affecting approximately 20 % of adults globally, imposes a profound burden on individuals and healthcare systems. This condition, characterized by persistent pain, muscle stiffness, and emotional distress, often results in a complex interplay of physical and psychological factors that exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery. Biofeedback (BFB), a non-invasive intervention, offers a promising rehabilitation strategy by enabling individuals to monitor and self-regulate physiological responses, such as muscle tension, heart rate, and skin temperature. Through this process, BFB disrupts the vicious cycle of pain and stress, fostering relaxation, reducing muscle strain, and alleviating emotional distress. This systematic review aimed to examine the mechanisms underlying BFB’s therapeutic effects in CP rehabilitation, specifically its ability to enhance self-regulation and …