Music Therapy Techniques Research Articles

Association Between Music Therapy Techniques and Patient-Reported Moderate to Severe Fatigue in Hospitalized Adults With Cancer.

Cancer-related fatigue is a prevalent, debilitating symptom that contributes to increased health care utilization among hospitalized patients. Music therapy is a nonpharmacological intervention that uses active (eg, singing, selecting songs) and passive (eg, listening) techniques. Preliminary evidence from small trials suggests a potential benefit for cancer-related fatigue in the inpatient setting; however, it remains unclear which techniques are most effective. A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was performed to compare cancer-related fatigue before and after active or passive music therapy. Cancer-related fatigue was captured via the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale fatigue item. Patients were asked to provide postsession free-text comments. A total of 436 patients (mean [standard deviation] age, 62.2 [13.4] years; n = 284 [65.1%] women; n = 294 [67.4%] white; active music therapy n = 360 [82.6%]; passive music therapy n = 76 [17.4%]) with a range of primary malignancies participated. Active music therapy was associated with a 0.88-point greater reduction in cancer-related fatigue (95% CI, 0.26 to 1.51; P = .006; Cohen's D, 0.52) at postsession as compared with passive music therapy when restricting the analysis to patients who rated their baseline cancer-related fatigue as moderate to severe (ie, ≥ 4; n = 236 [54.1%]). Free-text responses confirmed higher frequencies of words describing positive affect/emotion among active music therapy participants. In a large sample of inpatient adults with diverse cancer disease types, active music therapy was associated with greater reduction in cancer-related fatigue and increased reporting of positive affect/emotions compared with passive music therapy. Additional research is warranted to determine the specific efficacy and underlying mechanisms of music therapy on cancer-related fatigue.

Влияние музыкотерапии и методики Мелоданс на общее самочувствие человека

Влияние музыкотерапии и методики Мелоданс на общее самочувствие человека

Runas un valodas attīstības traucējumi, to korekcija un profilakse mūzikas terapijas praksē

Language is the most important instrument of communication that permits to express thoughts, feelings, sensations, desires and needs and to describe and comprehend emotions. Music without words can evoke strong emotional reactions by directly affecting emotional centres in the brain. Playing of music instrument or even listening to music can create neuroplastic changes in brain by activating compensatory mechanisms. Whereas during the listening to the music that is pleasant and preferred by the client, dopamine is released which is necessary for creating new neuron connections in the brain. Music therapy provides possibilities of effective treatment, the decrement of complications and disorders, as well as learning and recovering of skills for both children and adults with various speech and language disorders. In Latvia the integrative eclectic approach is being developed in music therapy. It permits to apply both creative music therapy methods and techniques and receptive techniques that are based on listening to music. For children with speech and language disorders more suitable are creative music therapy techniques that facilitate the awareness of oneself and one’s resources, the improvement of interaction, cooperation and communication skills, emotional expressions and control, the development of the speech motor system and the improvement of language skills. Music therapy is one of the few treatment possibilities that includes simultaneous work on improving motor skills and recognition of emotional difficulties and their solving. It is essential for patients that stutter to get help in correcting along with the psychological and emotional support and help. For patients after a stroke and with aphasia of various origins recommended and effective for recovering and improving speech and language skills are Melodic intonation therapy, SIPARI®, listening to music, as well as playing music in both individual and group therapies. Playing music as multisensory activity which activates and connects such areas and systems in the brain that normally are not working together. Therefore, it can stimulate the overtaking of the lost skills by non-damaged brain parts and restores speech and language skills.

Selected Cognitive Techniques of Neurological Music Terapy in Acoustic-Amnesic Aphasia Terapy. Case Study

Music is able to stimulate the human brain at different levels, resulting in greater durability of treatment results, as well as the overall health of patients is improved. The aim of the article is to present the use of cognitive neurological music therapy techniques in the treatment of acousticmnestic aphasia patients. In the theoretical part of the article, the language and communication deficits occurring in the acoustic-mnestic aphasia are described. The basic assumptions and mechanisms of neurological music therapy were also presented, as well as the neuromuscular therapeutic techniques were briefly characterized and divided into three groups due to the area of influence (sensomotor, speech therapy and cognitive). Next, a case study of a patient with acoustic-mnestic aphasia was presented. Based on the characteristics and description of linguistic and communication disorders of the patient, appropriate cognitive techniques of neurological musicotherapy were selected and their use in the therapy of the described patient was described.

Effectiveness of Music Therapy and Emotional Freedom Technique on Test Anxiety in Turkish Nursing Students: A Randomised Controlled Trial

IntroductionTest anxiety, one of the forms of situational anxiety, is a crucial biopsychological factor negatively affecting the wellbeing and academic performance of students throughout their education. The study aimed to determine the effects of music therapy and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) on situational anxiety and vital signs in nursing students before they took an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam). MethodsThis study was conducted with 90 volunteer students. A computer-based random number generator was used to randomly assign the students into three groups (Music, EFT, and control), each group consisted of 30 students. Data was collected using a Student Identification Form, the Situational Anxiety Scale, and the Vital Signs Form. ResultsBefore the interventions, the mean anxiety scores of the students were similar. After the interventions, however, the mean anxiety scores of those in both experimental groups were significantly lower (p < .05). The difference between the mean vital signs of the groups was not statistically significant, except the pulse rate in the EFT and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the music group. ConclusionsAccording to the results of the study, both music therapy and EFT led to a decrease in the nursing students’ average scores before the OSCE, as measured by the Situational Anxiety Scale.

A music therapy feasibility study with adults on a hospital neuroscience unit: Investigating service user technique choices and immediate effects on mood and pain

The purpose of this investigation was to study the frequency of service user MT technique choices and their resultant effects on mood and pain in adults receiving music therapy (MT) offered for the first time on a neuroscience unit. Participants (N = 29) self-selected into one of three pre-determined single-session techniques: 1) Listening to preferred music delivered live (receptive MT); 2) A guided relaxation script with pre-recorded music (guided relaxation); or 3) Playing instruments to preferred music delivered live (active MT) and completed mood and pain scales at pre- and posttest. Most participants selected receptive MT (n = 16, 55%), followed by guided relaxation (n = 11, 38%) and active MT (n = 2, 7%). Although no significant within- or between-group difference in mood or pain was found, most techniques tended to slightly improve mood and pain from pre- to posttest. Despite the temporal parameters of a single treatment session, MT tended to have positive impacts on mood and pain from pre- to posttest. Implications for clinical practice, limitations, and suggestions for future research are provided.

Shifting ‘stuckness’ in Parkinson’s disease: a music therapy case study

Prior research has demonstrated the positive effect of music therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease, much of which is concerned with functional motor-related goals and their quantitative measurement. However, few studies qualitatively address details of the music therapy process itself. This interpretivist case study sought to understand the therapeutic potential of an eight-week integrated music therapy intervention involving a single client with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The music therapy intervention, focusing on motor and non-motor clinical goals, comprised clinical improvisation, structured musical exercises, music-centred movement, and receptive music therapy techniques. Data collected included audio-visual footage of the intervention and transcripts from semi-structured interviews conducted with the client and the music therapist at the conclusion of the intervention. The article illustrates the ways in which the integrated music therapy intervention addressed the client’s experience of ‘stuckness’ and other challenges associated with the lived experience of PD. Themes from the thematic analysis revealed that the client experienced increased motivation, self-confidence, improved motor and gait control, mood regulation, better focus, the opportunity for emotional expression, and support within the therapeutic relationship.

MUSIC THERAPY FOR STROKE PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW WITH META-ANALYSIS

There are numerous trials, showing positive results for using the music therapy for stroke patient rehabilitation. Therefore, summarizing the data from these trials is an actual topic. The objective, of this research, was to summarize the data from trials about the use of music therapy methods and techniques, especially the rhythmic auditory stimulation, for improving of the motor functions for stroke patients, by creating a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, with meta-analysis. The trials where searched in MEDLINE, Cochrane Trial Register and EBSO databases. The trial quality was evaluated by the PEDro scale. 20 randomized controlled trials were included in the systematic review. The meta-analysis for 5 gait outcomes, including gait speed, steps per minute, step length, gait symmetry, Time up and go test, and 7 arm function outcomes, including Fugl-Meyer test, ARAT test, Box and blocks test, Wolf motor function test, Nine hole peg test, shoulder flexion, elbow extension, was conducted. According to the results of the meta-analysis, gait exercises, combined with rhythmic auditory stimulation, provide statistically significant improvement, compared with gait exercises alone. Concerning the use of rhythmic auditory stimulation and other music therapy interventions for arm function rehabilitation, a statistically significant improvement was not detected.

Facilitated music listening: Music therapy in an invasive cardiac procedure

This article presents and discusses a clinical music therapy protocol for use during an invasive cardiac procedure and the theoretical rationale behind it. The protocol was developed for a specific invasive cardiac procedure performed transvenously with local anaesthesia: cardiac implantable electronic device lead extraction. The music listening intervention presented in the protocol aims to optimise stress and pain management for patients through patient involvement, communication, individualised music listening and relaxation techniques. The Music Therapist remains present throughout the peri-operative phase (in the operating theatre during the operation). The music is chosen from a limited set of prepared playlists through a process involving assessment and patient preference. Biological, psychological and social components are integrated into the protocol, which is also informed by the theory of music therapy as procedural support, the neuromatrix theory of pain and receptive music therapy techniques. The protocol was developed to be standardised for implementation into the existing medical procedure, yet flexible enough to meet individual patient needs. It is the cornerstone of the research protocol of an ongoing randomised controlled trial at the Department of Cardiology at Oslo University Hospital Ulleval. Results of the randomised controlled trial, focussing on quantitative efficacy outcomes, are expected in 2020.

Blue Notes: Using Songwriting to Improve Student Mental Health and Wellbeing. A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial.

Higher Education is a period of transition. Students try out identities, develop skills, and explore their shifting sense-of-self. Recent evidence suggests an increase in mental distress in this population, pressurising in-house support schemes. Therapeutic songwriting is a music therapy technique, which can reduce mental distress and improve social engagement in a range of clinical populations; yet it is also an accessible art form, possibly an ideal vehicle for supporting students in distress. This paper examines whether participation in a weekly songwriting program could make a suitable RCT to support wellbeing within the HE environment. We used a methodologically rigorous pre-registered parallel wait-list pilot RCT design. Trial registration: ISRCTN11180007. Participants self-identifying as stressed, anxious, or depressed, or with a pre-existing mental health condition, were randomly allocated to the experimental group (5 weeks, songwriting) (n = 6) or to the wait-list control group (5 weeks, no intervention) (n = 6). Measures were taken at baseline and at the start (Time 1) and end (Time 2) of the intervention. Measures included: depression and anxiety scales, social identification, loneliness, and friendship. Change scores were calculated and a Mann–Whitney U revealed that depression levels in songwriters (Mdn = -1.0) differed significantly from wait-list controls (Mdn = 8.5) at T2, U = 5.00, z = -2.085, p < 0.041, r = 2.66. Songwriters’ levels of social connection (Mdn = 2.50) also differed significantly from wait-list controls (Mdn = 3.00) at T2 U = 3.00, z = -2.441, p < 0.015, r = 0.524. There were no other significant differences between control and intervention groups. A therapeutic songwriting intervention may have individual and group level benefits for a student population, alongside possible institutional benefits in student retention. Effects may be seen within depression and social connection metrics, and future RCTs should consider expanding measures for self-efficacy, social isolation, and wellbeing. This type of program illustrates a space for cost-effective, group, face to face additions institutional mental health support provision as part of a package of support for students.

\u201cSong of Life (SOL)\u201d study protocol: a multicenter, randomized trial on the emotional, spiritual, and psychobiological effects of music therapy in palliative care

BackgroundAlthough patients in palliative care commonly report high emotional and spiritual needs, effective psychosocial treatments based on high quality studies are rare. First research provides evidence for benefits of psychosocial interventions in advanced cancer care. To specifically address end-of-life care requirements, life review techniques and creative-arts based therapies offer a promising potential. Therefore, the present study protocol presents a randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of a newly developed music therapy technique that is based on a biographically meaningful song (“Song of Life”; SOL).MethodsIn a design with two parallel arms, 104 patients at two palliative care units will be randomly assigned to three sessions of either SOL (experimental group) or relaxation exercises (control group). Improvements in the psychological domain of quality of life will be the primary endpoint, while secondary outcomes encompass spiritual well-being, ego-integrity, overall quality of life, and distress. Additionally, caregivers will be asked to provide feedback about the treatment. Assessment of biopsychological stress markers and qualitative analysis of perceived strengths and weaknesses will complement data collection.DiscussionBased on the results of a previous pilot study, we dedicated considerable efforts to optimizing the intervention and selecting appropriate outcomes for the present trial. We are confident to have designed a methodologically rigorous study that will contribute to the evidence-base and help to develop the potential of psychosocial interventions in palliative care.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) – DRKS00015308 (date of registration: September 07th 2018).

The effect of music therapy on hemodialysis patients' quality of life and depression symptoms.

ABSTRACTIntroduction:The sources of stress involved in chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to depressive states, directly affecting the hemodialysis patient's quality of life (QOL). There are few reports and studies on therapeutic interventions that aim to minimize depressive symptoms in these patients and an even greater shortage of studies using music therapy.Objective:This study evaluated the effect of music therapy on QOL and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients.Method:This was a music therapy intervention study in which 23 patients were evaluated regarding QOL and depression symptoms at two distinct stages - before and after the intervention. Eight sessions of music therapy were conducted, with two weekly sessions and an average duration of 75 minutes. The intervention was conducted by the music therapist herself, using specific music therapy techniques, besides voice and guitar to conduct harmonic and rhythmic support for the groups' sound-music production.Results:The patients showed a significant reduction in depression symptoms (p < 0.001) and better QOL results, with significant differences in the following dimensions: functional capacity (p = 0.011), pain (p = 0.036), general health (p = 0.01), vitality (p = 0.004), mental health (p = 0.012), symptom and problem list (p = 0.01), and overall health (p = 0.01).Conclusions:Intervention with music therapy constitutes an effective option in the treatment and prevention of depressive symptoms and improved QOL of HD patients.

Innovative computer technology in music-based interventions for individuals with autism moving beyond traditional interactive music therapy techniques

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), who exhibit developmental limitations in social-emotional interaction and communication, are widely reported to respond positively to music therapy...

Comparison of the Effectiveness of CBT Group Counseling with Passive vs Active Music Therapy to Reduce Millennials Academic Anxiety

The purpose of this research is to know the effectiveness of counseling group implementation of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) approach with passive and active music therapy technique in reducing academic anxiety millennials students. This study used quasi-experimental design with repeated measures (pretest, posttest, and follow-up). Group counseling was conducted for 5 meetings (@ 100 minutes), and follow-up was performed after 2 weeks of treatment. Research subjects used in this study are 14 millennials generation millennials students divided into two groups. The results showed that during pretest vs. posttest, CBT group counseling with passive was more effective for reducing academic anxiety compared to active music therapy. In pretest vs follow-up, active was more effective for reducing academic anxiety compared with passive music therapy. Furthermore, posttest vs. follow-up, active was more effective for reducing academic anxiety compared with passive music therapy with an increased academic anxiety after two weeks of treatment.

Effect of assertive training on cyber bullying behavior for students

The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of group counseling with cognitive behavior therapy approach using passive music therapy technique to improve the self-efficacy of millennials college students who is writing thesis. The research used quasi-experimental design (pretest, post-test,and follow-up). Group counseling was conducted for five meetings, and follow-up was performed two weeks after the treatment. Research subjects were seven millennials college students. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the subjects, that is based on inclusion criteria and level of self-efficacy which is obtained from self-efficacy scale (rxy=0.601-0.839,coefficient alpha=0.951).The results showed that group counseling with cognitive behavior therapy approach using passive music therapy technique was significantly effective to improve the millennials college students’ self-efficacy in pretest vs. post-test and pretest vs follow-up, but in post-test vs. follow-up there was a slight decrease in self-efficacy. Passive music therapy which is integrated into group counseling with cognitive behavior counseling approach, it is not only able to solve the individual problems but also able to help individuals to analyze their thoughts and behaviors through passive music activities with guidedimagery.

Mind-Body Therapies in Childhood Cancer.

Advances in the field of Pediatric Oncology have led to increased survival rates in children with cancer, and addressing the emotional well-being and quality of life of this specific population is a critical component of care. Mind-body therapies (MBTs) are an adjuvant modality of treatment that appears to have a positive impact on patient quality of life, patient mental health, and family perceptions toward illness. In this review, we describe several evidence-based MBTs, such as art therapy, meditation, prayer, music therapy, hypnosis and relaxation techniques, their use, and our personal experience with MBT in our institution. Current data suggests that MBTs have been effective in decreasing symptoms related to oncologic pathology in children. Based on experience in our institution, the administration of these therapies can be expanded with the use of technology and also foster family inclusion in care, which can lead to improved quality of life for the patient and family. Further studies are warranted to ascertain the effects of MBTs in childhood cancer. MBTs are increasingly important in the care of youth with oncologic disease. It is necessary to increase the quantity and quality of research for the selection and inclusion of MBT in this population.

MUSIC THERAPY AS PART OF THE TREATMENT OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS

Objective: This paper presents the experience of a university extension project conducted in an University Hospital, with inclusion of music therapy in outpatient multidisciplinary care of the hypertensive patient. Design and method: It is developed music therapy interventions in different settings, mainly in the waiting room of the outpatient service, using as main resources the voice and the guitar, which become more accessible instruments for outpatient/hospital service. The interventions last for approximately forty minutes. Other interventions of music therapists occur in different settings, such as the bi-weekly meeting of Clube do Hipertenso (for all the patients) or prevention actions. The main music therapy techniques are interactive and singing is the main activity. Breathing and relaxation activities are also performed, together with the sound-musical expression or the musical hearing. Results: With the interventions, carried out with a humanistic approach and holistic vision, an environment of listening and welcoming is provided, where patients can express themselves and perceive habits that influence health and quality of life. It encourages a look at itself and the other, because the consultations/interventions are realized in group and they provide the sharing of experiences. The project has been provided: encourage the adoption of healthy habits; decrease the stress of patients; include the music therapist in the multidisciplinary team; contribute to the humanization of care in collective health; promote health education; and, to stimulate the relation between extension, teaching and research actions in the university. Conclusions: It is considered that the action of the music therapist seeks the integral improvement of the individual, since it can cover biopsychosocial aspects of the hypertensive individual and meets the main objectives of the following Public Policies of the Ministry of Health: National Humanization Policy, National Health Policy of the Elderly People, National Policy of Basic Attention and National Policy of Health Promotion, consciously inserted in the actions of all the health team.

MUSIC THERAPY IN RETT SYNDROME CASES

Rett syndrome is a rare (0,01%) genetic disorder affecting girls' development. Individuals with Rett syndrome experience a full range of health problems that severely influence and complicate their mobility, intellect, communication, learning, and entire lifestyle. The treatment of Rett's syndrome is still aimed at investigating new pathways to ensure the best possible patient’s development and quality of life. The distinctive feature of Rett syndrome is the two main sensations with little damage: hearing and vision. Therefore, music therapy plays an exceptional role in the treatment and special education of children with Rett syndrome. The goal of this study is to find the most effective music therapy techniques and their specific indications whilst working with individuals with Rett syndrome. Research method used: music therapists’ online survey conducted internationally. The research suggests that the most effective methods in Rett syndrome cases are structured musical games that promote targeted hands-on movements, as well as listening to the songs and choice of favourite songs using pictures or other symbols. Music therapy can be applied for various health needs of individuals with Rett syndrome, especially to enhance hand functions as well as to improve non-verbal communication and to help individuals experience togetherness and joy.

Relationship Completion in Palliative Care Music Therapy: Clinical Case Example-Part 1

The following case study represents an example of music therapy research in palliative care with a focus on relationship completion. This case of ‘Bill’, presents one of the four participant’s experience in the research study on relationship completion in palliative care. The results of Bill’s case are presented in Part II of this paper.(1) Bill received 30 individual music therapy sessions provided at three levels of practice.(2) The music therapy techniques utilized included: song choice; lyric discussion and analysis; songwriting, singing and playing pre-composed songs; life review; and song dedication. Bill’s wife (a study co-participant) also joined in the music therapy sessions towards the end of the process.

EEG-Based Analysis of the Emotional Effect of Music Therapy on Palliative Care Cancer Patients.

Music is known to have the power to induce strong emotions. The present study assessed, based on Electroencephalography (EEG) data, the emotional response of terminally ill cancer patients to a music therapy intervention in a randomized controlled trial. A sample of 40 participants from the palliative care unit in the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona was randomly assigned to two groups of 20. The first group [experimental group (EG)] participated in a session of music therapy (MT), and the second group [control group (CG)] was provided with company. Based on our previous work on EEG-based emotion detection, instantaneous emotional indicators in the form of a coordinate in the arousal-valence plane were extracted from the participants’ EEG data. The emotional indicators were analyzed in order to quantify (1) the overall emotional effect of MT on the patients compared to controls, and (2) the relative effect of the different MT techniques applied during each session. During each MT session, five conditions were considered: I (initial patient’s state before MT starts), C1 (passive listening), C2 (active listening), R (relaxation), and F (final patient’s state). EEG data analysis showed a significant increase in valence (p = 0.0004) and arousal (p = 0.003) between I and F in the EG. No significant changes were found in the CG. This results can be interpreted as a positive emotional effect of MT in advanced cancer patients. In addition, according to pre- and post-intervention questionnaire responses, participants in the EG also showed a significant decrease in tiredness, anxiety and breathing difficulties, as well as an increase in levels of well-being. No equivalent changes were observed in the CG.