Objective: 

The aim of study is to elaborate the best biofeedback training method for students with autonomic nervous system dysfunction and decreased stress tolerance.

Methods: 

Seventeen students (female, average age 21.3 years) with tension type headache attacks after stressful events were tested (group B). 66 age and gender matched healthy students were used as a control group (group A). Stress tolerance was detected using Vienna test systems Determination test (Schuhffried GmbH, Austria). Sympatho-parasympathetic balance was evaluated with Task Force Monitor device (CNS systems Medizintechnick, Austria). Biofeedback 2000 X-pert device (Schuhffried GmbH, Austria) was used for biofeedback trainings. Blood volume pulse amplitude training of a. temporalis, EMG training and skin temperature training were used with aim to decrease sympathetic activity in group B. Average training period was 8 weeks for each person. Training session lasted at least 20 min, performed 2 times weekly. Pain frequency and intensity were fixed before and after biofeedback training sessions.

Results: 

Significantly decreased baroreflex sensitivity and decreased stress tolerance were detected in group B in comparison with group A. Pulse amplitude volume training for a. temporalis significantly decreased pain frequency. Pain intensity had tendency to decrease after biofeedback period. It is found that baroreflex sensitivity and stress tolerance had tendency to increase after biofeedback training.

Conclusions: 

The elaborated training model was proved to be optimal in order to re-establish sympatho-vagal balance in students with decreased stress tolerance. Pulse volume amplitude training was found as the most suitable and effective method comparing with EMG and temperature trainings.