Music Heals Pain

Music as an Effective Pain Therapy

It is undeniable that the aging process can carry immense physical pain. Some religions prohibit the use of prescription and over-the-counter drug remedies for pain management, and often times the elderly are poorly covered by medicare or medicaid. However, recent studies show that music has the ability to help manage and alleviate physical pain -- Music can help reduce both the sensation and distress of both chronic pain and postoperative pain.


Chronic Pain

According to an article entitled "Effect of Music on Power, Pain, Depression and Disability" from Journal of Advanced Nursing (UK), "Listening to music can reduce chronic pain from a range of painful conditions, including osteoarthritis, disc problems and rheumatoid arthritis, by up to 21% and depression by up to 25%." These chronic problems remain prevalent in the American elderly, and according to Laura Olson's book Age Through Ethnic Lenses: Caring for the Elderly in a Multicultural Society, many religions prohibit the use of drugs and governmental health programs. The use of music as a physical therapy allows these religions to manage pain while remaining true to their respective faiths.

Music is also used as an alternative to pain relievers in hospitals replacing anesthesia and other commonly used drugs.

Though revolutionary in theory, the idea that music can serve as a subsequent pain reliever has been questioned by few. But support remains for the ability for music to heal. It is believed that music positively affects perceived pain in the following ways:

• 1. Music serves as a distractor
• 2. Music may give the patient a sense of control
• 3. Music causes the body to release endorphins to counteract pain
• 4. Slow music relaxes person by slowing their breathing and heartbeat

With the discovery of an alternative pain remedy, music's importance in society especially among the elderly is sure to increase exponentially, saving lives and saving pennies.