Music Eases Perception Of Chronic Pain

May 30, 2006

A study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that music

can significantly ease a patient's perception of chronic pain.

Researchers from the Cleveland Clinic Foundation examined the effect

of music on 60 patients who had been experiencing chronic pain for an

average of six-and-a-half years. Most of the patients suffered from

osteoarthritis, disc problems and rheumatoid arthritis. The majority

experienced continuous pain in two or more parts of the body. They

were recruited from pain and chiropractic clinics.

The patients were divided into two groups. One listened to music for

one hour per day on headsets. The other did not listen to music at

all. Among those who listened to music, half could choose the music

themselves, while the other half could choose from five relaxation

recordings the researchers provided them with.

The researchers found that music brought about a 21% reduction in

pain levels as well as a 25% drop in depression linked to pain. The

researchers said patients felt the pain less disabling with music

therapy. There was no significant difference between those who could

chose their own music and those who could select from five recordings

given to them.

Dr. Siedlecki, team leader, said the study showed that music

has a significant beneficial effect of pain reduction, less

depression, less disability and increased feelings of power. She

added that many sufferers of non-malignant pain continue to

experience high levels of pain despite using medication. Anything

that can provide relief is welcomed.

The team concluded that music does have an important role to play in

modern healthcare.

Some people have written to us asking whether this pain relief may

only have a short-term effect. Perhaps a long-term study would be

useful.

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