BCN study plan

Define biofeedback in your own words and list its core modalities (EMG, thermal, electrodermal, respiratory, HRV) without notes

Explain the physiological rationale for each modality by mapping the signal source to the autonomic or neuromuscular process it reflects

Draw a labeled diagram of a generic biofeedback loop showing signal acquisition, amplification, filtering, display, and client feedback

List at least six clinical indications and three contraindications or cautions for biofeedback

Describe proper electrode placement, skin preparation, and artifact-reduction steps for surface EMG

Compare raw, integrated, and RMS EMG signals and state when each is preferred

Explain the EEG frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, gamma) and one functional correlate for each

Identify common EEG artifacts (eye blink, muscle, movement) and describe one correction strategy for each

Trace the neurofeedback training loop from assessment through reward/inhibit thresholds to home practice and re-assessment

Distinguish amplitude, frequency, and connectivity-based training protocols and give a use case for each

Explain operant conditioning principles as applied to neurofeedback reinforcement and threshold setting

Outline a session structure including baseline, training blocks, and review of performance data

Explain the physiology of heart rate variability, including sympathetic and parasympathetic contributions and respiratory sinus arrhythmia

Define time-domain, frequency-domain, and non-linear HRV metrics and interpret a sample report

Describe proper measurement conditions (duration, posture, breathing pace, artifact handling) for reliable HRV data

List factors that confound HRV readings and state how to control for each

Demonstrate paced-breathing protocols and explain how breathing rate shifts HRV toward parasympathetic dominance

Describe surface EMG assessment of pelvic floor musculature, including placement and signal interpretation

Explain pelvic floor anatomy and function relevant to biofeedback training for both sexes

Identify common pelvic muscle dysfunction presentations such as hypertonicity, hypotonicity, and incoordination

Design a progressive pelvic muscle biofeedback treatment plan from assessment through home exercise progression

Explain how to set and adjust training thresholds based on baseline resting and contraction amplitudes

Describe patient education and self-monitoring strategies that support adherence to pelvic floor training

Outline ethical and scope-of-practice considerations when using pelvic biofeedback

Integrate concepts across all four domains by explaining how biofeedback, neurofeedback, and HRV training overlap in autonomic regulation

Answer at least 100 practice questions across all domains and log accuracy by domain

Review every missed question and write a corrected rationale for each

Revisit the two weakest domains and summarize the three highest-yield facts for each

Complete two timed full-length practice exams under test conditions

Target any domain still below 75 percent accuracy with focused review of notes and concept maps

Recite key definitions, metrics, and protocols aloud without reference materials

Finalize a one-page summary sheet covering the highest-yield facts from each domain