Abstract

We have elaborated a heart-rate controller by bio-feedback method which was named multiple reinforcement method. In clinical practice, we use 2 kinds of bio-feedback training (BFT), that is, above-mentioned method and operant method. The subjects were patients with tachycardia, functional or secondary, sinus bradycardia, extrasystoles, mild cases of conduction disorders and arterial tonus abnormalities. Also we tried BFT on old ages. We are of the view that, if necessary, BFT should be performed with medication or other therapies such as autogenic training method. According to our experiences, clinical BFT could be classified into two groups, direct and indirect ones. Direct BFT is that derived from basic bio-feedback, such as operant conditioning, literally followed after the definition that bio-feedback is the instrumental conditioning of autonomic nervous function. Indirect BFT is that suits for the control or elimination of noise factors for bio-feedback method such as emotional disorders, physical and circumstantial stresses. This is useful for understanding psychosomatic aspects of mind-body relationship and its control. We apply both BFTs as occasion demands.