Myeloma and Biofeedback: Can It Help with Treatment Side Effects?

18 June 2023

Understanding Myeloma and Its Side Effects

Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, is a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells. These cells are responsible for producing antibodies that help our body fight infections. When myeloma develops, these cells begin to multiply uncontrollably, leading to various health problems like anemia, kidney problems, and bone damage.
As with any cancer, myeloma comes with its fair share of side effects from both the disease itself and the treatments used to combat it. Some of the common side effects include fatigue, nausea, pain, and difficulty sleeping. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of biofeedback as a complementary therapy to help manage these side effects.

What Is Biofeedback and How Does It Work?

Biofeedback is a non-invasive technique that teaches individuals to control their body's functions, such as heart rate, breathing, and muscle tension. It involves the use of electronic or electromechanical devices that provide information about the body's processes in real-time. This allows the person to become more aware of these processes and develop strategies to control them.
During a biofeedback session, a therapist will attach sensors to the patient's body, which will monitor various physiological functions. The therapist then guides the patient through relaxation techniques and helps them understand the connection between their body's responses and the symptoms they are experiencing. With regular practice, patients can learn to control these responses and alleviate their symptoms.

Managing Pain with Biofeedback

One of the most common side effects of myeloma and its treatments is pain, which can be caused by bone damage, nerve compression, or inflammation. Biofeedback has shown promise in helping patients manage their pain by teaching them to control their body's response to it.
For example, a patient may learn to control their muscle tension or breathing rate, which can help reduce the perception of pain. Additionally, biofeedback can help patients develop coping strategies to deal with pain when it arises, such as relaxation techniques or distraction methods. Overall, incorporating biofeedback into a myeloma patient's pain management plan may help improve their quality of life.

Reducing Fatigue with Biofeedback

Fatigue is another common side effect of myeloma, and it can significantly impact a patient's daily life. Biofeedback can help manage fatigue by teaching patients to become more aware of their body's energy levels and develop strategies to conserve energy.
For instance, a patient may learn to recognize when their body is becoming fatigued and practice relaxation techniques to help them rest and recharge. Biofeedback can also help patients improve their sleep quality, which is essential for combating fatigue. By learning to control their body's functions, like heart rate and muscle tension, patients may be able to fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

Alleviating Nausea through Biofeedback

Nausea is a common side effect of many cancer treatments, including those for myeloma. It can be caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or medications used to manage other side effects. Biofeedback has shown promise in helping patients reduce nausea by teaching them to control their body's response to it.
For example, a patient may learn to control their breathing rate or muscle tension, which can help alleviate nausea. Additionally, biofeedback can help patients develop coping strategies to deal with nausea when it arises, such as focusing on calming thoughts or engaging in relaxation techniques. By incorporating biofeedback into their treatment plan, myeloma patients may be able to better manage their nausea and improve their overall well-being.

Improving Sleep Quality with Biofeedback

Difficulty sleeping is a common issue for many myeloma patients, whether it's due to pain, anxiety, or other side effects of treatment. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate other symptoms and negatively impact a patient's overall well-being. Biofeedback can help improve sleep quality by teaching patients to control their body's functions, like heart rate and muscle tension, which may help them fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
Additionally, biofeedback can help patients develop relaxation techniques and coping strategies to deal with sleep disturbances when they arise. By incorporating biofeedback into their treatment plan, myeloma patients may be able to improve their sleep quality and overall well-being.

Final Thoughts on Biofeedback and Myeloma

While biofeedback is not a cure for myeloma, it has shown promise as a complementary therapy to help patients manage the side effects of their disease and treatments. By teaching patients to control their body's functions, like heart rate, breathing, and muscle tension, biofeedback can help alleviate symptoms like pain, fatigue, nausea, and sleep disturbances.
It's essential for myeloma patients to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include biofeedback alongside traditional medical treatments. As with any therapy, it's crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before incorporating biofeedback into your treatment plan.