Music Therapy for Pain Relief

Music therapy can provide relief from pain and induce relaxation for a range of illnesses and conditions, whether acute or long-term. Our current understanding of pain is explained by the Neuromatrix of Pain theory. The key is to understand that music can limit pain signals coming in via the neural gating circuit, by distracting from the pain or using music as a competing stimuli, and by sending positive/relaxing messages from the brain. Through the skilful use of music therapy interventions, via affective, cognitive, and sensory processes, one or more of the following outcomes may be expected: distraction from the pain stimuli, improved mood, increased sense of control (autonomy), relaxation and ability to tap on inner resources, leading to reduced pain (Magill-Levreault, 1993).  

Palliative care and post-operative gynaecological patients report reduced pain perception following music therapy (Gutgsell et al., 2013; Sin & Chow, 2015). Even for painful dressing changes that burns patients have to endure, music therapy significantly decreased the acute procedural pain, anxiety, and muscle tension levels associated with daily burn care (Tan, Yowler, Super, & Fratianne, 2010, p. 590).

Visit benefits of music therapy page for the full list of references.