Galvanic skin response is a method used in Biofeedback therapy, which uses the mind to control the body. Biofeedback is a complementary and alternative medicine and one monitoring procedure that a specialist uses is the Galvanic skin response system, which observes and measures perspiration levels. This teaches individuals to control certain involuntary body responses by first observing them and then conditioning the reactions to these responses.

Galvanic skin response: a technique of biofeedback:
A biofeedback therapist gathers information about the body’s responses of a patient through galvanic skin response technique, depending on the particular health problems and objectives of the individual. The machines and techniques used during Galvanic skin response training determine the success of the treatment. In this technique, there are sensors that measure the activity of sweat glands and the amount of perspiration on the skin, alerting the individual about anxiety. This information is very valuable in treating emotional disorders like phobias, anxiety and stuttering.

Procedure of monitoring Galvanic skin response (GSH) or Electro dermal Response (EDR):
The Galvanic skin response equipment measures electrical conductance in the skin, associated with the activity of the sweat glands. A very slight electrical current runs through the skin and the GSR machine measures changes in the salt and water in the sweat gland ducts. More emotionally aroused persons will have more active sweat glands and greater electrical conductivity of skin.

Uses of Galvanic Skin Response:
At times, GSR techniques help cure phobias, anxiety attacks, excessive sweating and stuttering, since these emotions affect the skin’s conductivity as well. The more popular use is as a lie detection test but even the world of sports has significant use of it. Athletes use this technique to prepare games as the use of a GSR machine helps ensure that they are not too nervous with pre-game jitters.

Pros and cons of biofeedback techniques like Galvanic Skin response:
Biofeedback has increasingly found many followers, but even though this alternative therapy may hold appeal to many, there are still considerations that one would be wise to weigh first. Therefore, even though techniques like galvanic skin response can detect anxiety levels and help reduce, or even eliminate, the need for medication, it may not be the last word in healing. It can provide measurable feedback and decrease medical cost, but since expert opinion is divided about how the therapy actually works, it is difficult for even patients having undergone galvanic skin response training to explain how they have been able to control their bodies to relieve their symptoms. The remedy for this therapy to be effective in treating particular symptoms, one suggestion is to keep a daily diary to monitor the utility of the treatment as well as how the person felt before, during and after the therapy. Although, galvanic skin response is considered safe, it is advisable to consult a doctor knowledgeable about this form of complementary medicine, especially if the anxiety has led to depression, severe psychosis, diabetes or other endocrine disorders.