v What is biofeedback?
v Why is biofeedback used?
v How does it work?
v How does it help locate the correct muscles?
v How is biofeedback used with Kegel exercises?
v When is the program over?

What is biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a response from a machine, either by sight or sound, that is programmed to measure changes in the body's activity. 

Why is biofeedback used?

Biofeedback is used to teach people, the new physical responses which were previously considered to be automatic. Basically, it points out which is the correct muscle, the correct muscle action, and the correct feeling, or response the person should be receiving. 

How does it work?

Biofeedback techniques have been used in connection with Kegel exercises to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Although most women have heard of Kegel exercises, many are confused about how to do them. This is because many women are unsure of how to locate the correct muscle and how to exercise them. 

How does it help locate the correct muscles?

The three mistakes that most often made when learning Kegel exercises are contracting accessory muscle like the gluteal muscles, abdominal muscles and the abductor muscles of the legs. Training these muscle instead of the correct pelvic floor muscle can actually increase abdominal pressure and thus the likelihood of incontinence. Biofeedback can eliminate these mistakes by helping the person locate the correct muscles to exercise. 

How is biofeedback used with Kegel exercises?

A device called the perineometer or probe, is inserted into the vaginal chamber (rectal chamber for males). This monitor measures the strength of the muscle contraction. This monitor is connected to the biofeedback device that is outside the body which can be viewed or heard depending on the product. Depending on the strength of the contraction, and visible display will change showing you the results. The response allows the patient to know when the correct muscles have been located and the intensity of pressure needed to strengthen them.

When is the program over?

Once the patient has learned to recognize and correctly exercise the appropriate muscles, the biofeedback monitor is no longer necessary, but can be used to assess progress. The patient can continue on her own. Although it is recommended that a persistent attitude toward the exercises is beneficial. Like any other part of the body, muscle strength is only maintained by consistent exercise. These exercises are to be continued for the rest of the person's life.