Studies have shown that regular practice of relaxation and biofeedback techniques results in a 45 to 80% reduction or elimination in both migraine headache severity and frequency.

The essence of biofeedback is to learn how to encounter stress without muscle tension, rapid heart rate and respiration, perspiration, or lowered body temperature. A typical course of biofeedback consists of eight to ten weekly 30 to 45-minute sessions. Learning to control body functions such as temperature occurs through muscle relaxation, which is achieved through relaxation, visualization, and breathing techniques.

A conscious effort is required in the first few weeks of training, but gradually these very brief relaxation techniques can become a subconscious habit. It can be quite helpful in relieving tension throughout the day, which in turn will reduce the frequency of headaches.

Children are especially quick learners of biofeedback and can often learn to prevent their migraines in only four to five sessions. In some cases they are able to stop their headache once it begins.