Music Therapy Research Articles

Comparative efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety in adult intensive care unit patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

The primary goal of the intensive care unit is to the anxiety of conscious patients is often ignored in the care unit. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of various non-pharmacological therapies for anxiety disorders in adult patients in the intensive care unit, in order to enhance humanistic care in the intensive care unit and to promote the patients' physical and mental recovery together. We conducted a systematic and comprehensive search of the literature in five databases (including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, and Embase) covering nearly a decade for randomized controlled trials of non-pharmacological therapies to reduce anxiety in adult intensive care unit patients. Two researchers independently assessed the quality of the literature, collected and condensed the data, and used STATA software to perform a network meta-analysis. The ranking probabilities for each intervention were calculated using the Surface under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) method. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO. This study ultimately included 26 randomized controlled trials involving 2791 adult ICU patients. Non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety in adult ICU patients included music therapy, aromatherapy, ICU diary, virtual reality, massage therapy, monitoring room diary, and health education. when compared to the control group (usual care), aromatherapy + music therapy [MD = -2.65, 95% CI (-4.76, -0.54)] (P = 0.0137) and music therapy [MD = -1.77, 95% CI (-3.40, -0.13)] (P = 0.0338) were superior in reducing anxiety in adult ICU patients. The results of the network meta-analysis showed that aromatherapy combined with music therapy significantly alleviated anxiety in adult ICU patients (SUCRA: 99.8%). Music therapy combined with aromatherapy has demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to other non-pharmacological interventions for reducing anxiety in awake adults in the ICU. However, the underlying mechanisms of this combined therapy require further exploration. Future research on the use of music therapy combined with aromatherapy in the care unit may help reduce anxiety in patients while fostering their physical and mental healing; however, individual variances and unique clinical circumstances must be considered.

The effect of music therapy and breathing exercise on anxiety and pain in patients undergoing coronary angiography: A randomized controlled study.

For over 50 years, music therapy and breathing exercises have been widely utilized as interventions to help individuals cope with fatigue, stress and pain globally. To analyse the effects of music and breathing exercises on anxiety and pain in patients undergoing coronary angiography. This is a single-blind, randomized controlled trial. The sample comprised 165 patients: 55 in the control group, 55 in the breathing exercise group and 55 in the music therapy group. Patients in the music group listened to music during angiography, those in the breathing exercise group practised exercises 30 min before the procedure and the control group received standard treatment. Anxiety levels were assessed before and after the procedure, and pain levels were measured post-procedure. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) checklist for reporting randomized trials was used to guide reporting. Anxiety scores rose significantly in the control group from 33.9 ± 4.2 pre-angiography to 37.7 ± 4.9 post-angiography. Conversely, the breathing group's anxiety scores decreased from 34.3 ± 3.5 before angiography to 31.7 ± 1.5 after angiography, and the music group exhibited a reduction from 32.3 ± 3.6 to 30.8 ± 1.6. Post-angiography, the control group reported a mean pain score of 64 ± 0.8 mm, while the breathing and music groups had significantly lower scores of 35 ± 0.6 and 29 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Statistical analysis showed a highly significant difference in pain scores between the intervention and control groups. This study provides support for the beneficial effects of employing breathing exercises and music in alleviating pain and anxiety during coronary angiography procedures. Integrating these findings into clinical practice could be significant for improving patients' pain experiences and anxiety, enhancing the tolerance of invasive medical procedures.

Interventional Analysis of Music Therapy on Emotional Behavior in Children with Autism

Music therapy, as an emerging field of rehabilitation, has been studied by many people. However, it only proves the effectiveness of music therapy in addressing emotional and behavioral issues in children with autism, and there are no specific strategies and methods applicable to special education schools for reference. This study attempts to address this issue. This study adopted a cross subject multi trial design in a single subject experimental method, with music therapy as the independent variable. Using the emotional behavior of these four autistic children who cried for no reason as the dependent variable, data was collected during the baseline, intervention, and maintenance periods to verify the intervention effect of music therapy on emotional behavior. The research results indicate that music therapy has immediate, sustained, and generalized effects on typical emotional and behavioral problems in children with autism. After music therapy intervention, the frequency of emotional and behavioral problems in each of the four autistic children decreased significantly, their self-control ability improved significantly, and language interaction was significantly prolonged. Based on the observation of student expressions and actions, participation statistics, and family interviews, it can be seen that students are interested in the environment of visual music, rhythm training, and situational music. The correct grasp of the core concepts of music therapy and timely feedback on intervention content play a crucial role in the treatment effect in this study.

“You don’t have to say much; paint it then!”: A Thematic Analysis of Mural Arts in Iraq (Mosul and Erbil as a Case)

People find themselves in need of adding some inspiration indoors; interior designers likely let their customers immerse in the charm of some wall art decor with sweet family room wall quotes like “Love begins at home”. The art of filling walls exceeds the interior spaces for decoration, including outdoor spaces where different forms of artistic expression are used. This wall art matters among populations globally as it conveys different messages to the public and the decision-makers as well. The current article investigates Mural Arts (MAs) in Mosul and Erbil, Iraq. The researchers aim to (1) interpret the variety of themes that Mosuli Artists (MoAs) and Erbili Artists (ErAs) communicate via painting and (2) figure out the shared and distinctive theme in MoAs and ErAs’ artwork. This study employed a qualitative approach to grasp the themes of MAs in both Mosul and Erbil. The researchers gathered 60 Mixed Mural Arts MMA samples (verbal and visual); 38 in Mosul and 22 in Erbil in four months (from 8 August to 20 November 2023). They purposefully covered a broad range of sites including street walls, building facades, government institution walls, school walls, and bridge side walls in both cities. The researchers employed the Thematic Analysis Approach (TAA)by Braun and Clarke (2006) benefiting from NVivo 11(1999-2017) software to induce themes in Mosul and Erbil. This study revealed a total of 13 themes in both Mosul and Erbil in Mosul and 5 in Erbil. 2 themes, viz. ‘Environmental Sustainability’ and ‘Patriotism’ were shared. Other 6 themes viz, ‘The Transformative Power of Knowledge’, ‘The Horse as a Symbol of Nobility’, ‘Reviving the City of Mosul’, ‘Women Abuse’, ‘Unity for Iraq’, and ‘Martyrdom’ were said to be distinctive in Mosul whereas 3 other themes, viz. ‘The Role of Women in Society’, ‘Music Therapy’, and ‘Motivation in Learning’ were interpreted in Erbil.

Effectiveness of acupuncture plus music therapy for post-stroke depression: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a prevalent complication of stroke that adversely affects patient outcomes. The etiology of PSD is complex, and no universally effective treatment exists. Acupuncture, with its historical use, combined with music therapy, presents a novel approach for PSD treatment. This study aims to systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy of combining acupuncture with music therapy for PSD through a meta-analysis. We systematically searched both Chinese and English literature in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and the Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP Database) for randomized controlled trials evaluating acupuncture combined with music therapy for PSD. Two independent evaluators conducted quality assessments and data extraction. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 18.0 software. This article contains 11 studies, involving a total of 698 patients. The results of the meta-analysis showed that, compared with the control group, the test group showed significant improvement on multiple outcome measures: HAMD score [mean difference (MD) = -3.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-3.61, -2.76), P < .00001], Self-Rating Depression Scale score [MD = -5.12, 95% CI (-6.61, -3.63), P < .00001], Pittsburgh sleep quality index score [MD = -2.40, 95% CI (-2.96, -1.84), P < .00001], BI score [MD = 14.16, 95% CI (4.37, 23.94), P = .005] were all significantly lower, significantly higher effectiveness [risk ratio = 1.21, 95% CI (1.11, 1.33), P < .0001]. These differences were also statistically significant. The use of acupuncture combined with music therapy is effective in reducing depression in PSD patients.

Relieving effect of jiao-tune of 5-element music on negative emotions in patients with decompensated hepatitis B virus cirrhosis: A randomized and controlled experiment study.

Depression and anxiety are common in patients with decompensated hepatitis B virus (HBV) cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the relieving effects of the jiao-tune of 5-element music on negative emotions in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis. The patients were randomly allocated into the control group (standard nursing care) and the jiao-tune group (standard nursing care plus a 2-month course of music therapy with the jiao-tune of 5-element music). The negative emotions of patients were assessed before intervention treatment and at the end of the 2-month follow-up using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). The analysis included 209 patients, with 102 in the control group and 107 in the jiao-tune group, all of whom returned their completed questionnaires. Baseline clinical characteristics and length of hospital stay were comparable between 2 groups. Before intervention treatment, there were no significant differences in SAS score (55.78 ± 5.64 vs 56.47 ± 3.28) and SDS score (65.13 ± 3.12 vs 64.48 ± 4.47) between the jiao-tune group and control group. After 2-month follow-up, the jiao-tune group had a significantly lower SAS score (53.17 ± 5.61) and SDS score (61.28 ± 1.52) compared with the control group (55.49 ± 3.37 and 63.08 ± 2.76), there were significant differences between 2 groups (P < .001). The jiao-tune of 5-element music can relieve the negative emotions in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis.

Integrative Treatment Approaches with Mind-Body Therapies in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a complex pathophysiology characterized by intense pruritus, often associated with psychological stress and atopic and non-atopic comorbidities that significantly reduce quality of life. The psychological aspects of AD and the interaction between the mind and body via the skin-brain axis have led to an interest in mind-body therapies (MBT). The aim of this article is, therefore, to reinforce the importance of psychodermatological care in AD. We performed a focused literature review on holistic practices or integrative MBT in AD, including education, cognitive behavioral therapy, habit reversal, meditation, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, biofeedback, progressive muscle relaxation, autonomous sensory meridian response, music therapy, massage, and touch therapy. A multidisciplinary holistic approach with MBT, in addition to conventional pharmacologic antipruritic therapies, to break the itch-scratch cycle may improve AD outcomes and psychological well-being. Although there is a paucity of rigorously designed trials, evidence shows the potential benefits of an integrative approach on pruritus, pain, psychological stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality. Relaxation and various behavioral interventions, such as habit reversal therapy for replacing harmful scratching with massaging with emollient 'plus', may reduce the urge to scratch, while education may improve adherence to conventional therapies.

Effectiveness of Balinese Selonding Gamelan Music Therapy in Reducing Blood Pressure and Anxiety in Older Adults with Hypertension: A Quasi-experimental Study

Effectiveness of Balinese Selonding Gamelan Music Therapy in Reducing Blood Pressure and Anxiety in Older Adults with Hypertension: A Quasi-experimental Study

Effect of Music Therapy on Anxiety in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Pregnancy can heighten anxiety levels, impacting both maternal and fetal well-being. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 33 randomized controlled trials exploring the effects of music therapy on anxiety in pregnant women. The studies included diverse populations, ranging from women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to those facing high-risk pregnancies. Music therapy interventions varied widely, including virtual reality experiences, classical music, lullabies, and patient-selected music, administered at different pregnancy stages such as IVF treatments, elective cesarean sections, and high-risk hospitalizations. The findings consistently demonstrated that music therapy significantly reduces anxiety levels in pregnant women. Positive outcomes included reductions in both state and trait anxiety, improved pregnancy rates, and enhanced maternal-fetal parameters. Additionally, music therapy showed promise in reducing anxiety during labor, cesarean deliveries, and high-risk hospital stays. These varied interventions and their positive outcomes highlight the potential of music therapy as an effective, non-pharmacological approach to managing pregnancy-related anxiety. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence on music therapy's efficacy in alleviating anxiety during pregnancy. It underscores the need for further research to standardize interventions and incorporate music therapy into routine prenatal care. By enhancing the overall well-being of expectant mothers, music therapy could become a valuable adjunct to conventional prenatal care practices.

Edukasi Penanganan Nonfarmakologi Nyeri Otot Kronis

Chronic pain can result from various clinical conditions and may persist for more than three months. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. While chronic pain can be associated with various diseases, its exact cause sometimes remains unclear. In 2019, data from the National Health Interview Survey in the United States indicated that approximately 1 in 5 adults experienced chronic pain, with over 7% frequently limiting their activities due to this condition. However, there is no comparable data available for Indonesia. Chronic pain restricts activities and can decrease a person’s quality of life. Various options are available for pain management, one of which is non-pharmacological therapy, including hot-cold compresses, massage and stretching techniques, music therapy, and aromatherapy. These therapies aim to improve bodily function, regulate emotions, reduce weakness, stress, and anxiety, and decrease the need for pain medication. Gout is among the most common causes of chronic pain, with a prevalence of 3.9% in the US, 2.5% in Europe, and 7.3% in Indonesia, according to Riskesdas (2018). Based on this, local citizens were provided with education about pain management. This community service activity involved educating citizens on non-pharmacological treatments for chronic pain management and offering health services to residents of Angke. The purpose was to increase knowledge about non-pharmacological treatments for managing chronic pain. This activity was conducted on April 27th, 2024, from 07.00 to 12.00 at the Dhammasavana School in the Angke sub-district area, West Jakarta. The activities proceeded smoothly and in an orderly manner. A comparison of citizens’ knowledge before and after the education revealed a 58.18% increase in knowledge, contributing to improved welfare among the local residents.

Correlates and patterns of using complementary health approaches among individuals with recent and longer-term cancer diagnoses: a US national cross-sectional study.

To (1) describe and compare the prevalence of using of complementary health approaches, focusing on mind and body practices, and reasons for use among cancer survivors, and (2) examine characteristics associated with use among those with a recent and non-recent diagnosis of cancer compared to those without a previous cancer diagnosis. Using data from the 2022 US National Health Interview Survey, prevalence estimates were derived for using any complementary health approach, by category (manipulative body-based [chiropractor, acupuncture, massage], creative [music therapy, art therapy], and mind-body [meditation, guided imagery, yoga]), and reasons for use. Regression models identified correlates of use among all participants and within cancer diagnosis subgroups. Among 26,523 adult participants, overall prevalence of using any complementary approach was similar amongst individuals with recent cancer (40.17%), non-recent cancer (37.75%), and no cancer diagnosis (37.93%). However, odds of use were higher amongst recent (OR = 1.37) and relatively long term(OR = 1.14) cancer survivors compared to those without a history of cancer in adjusted models (both p < 0.05). In cancer survivors, mind-body approaches were mostly used for general health purposes, whereas manipulative approaches were used for general health and pain management. Female sex, younger age, higher education and income were among the prominent variables associated with using complementary approaches. We present an important snapshot of the landscape of using complementary approaches, specifically mind and body practices, in adult cancer survivors in the US. Inequalities in access to these therapies may exist, as use remains highest amongst those with higher socioeconomic conditions. Given the prevalence and potential benefits of complementary approaches among cancer survivors, there is a need to better understand their effectiveness, optimal use, and integration into cancer care. Further research is needed to understand and address access barriers that might exist amongst some cancer survivors.

Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurological condition associated with a decrease in levels of acetylcholine and diminished cholinergic functions. This may be caused by the degeneration of cholinergic neurons in the brain, leading to cognitive deficits. Due to the difficulty and invasiveness of collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) required for assessing conventional biomarkers, researchers are currently exploring less intrusive, less expensive, and more straightforward methods for diagnosing AD. Additionally, conventional interventions such as cholinesterase inhibitors like rivastigmine, donepezil, and galantamine are US FDA-approved drugs that are still effective for managing AD. The goal of this therapy is to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade acetylcholine. Therefore, this therapeutic approach is useful for treating mild-to-moderate AD. However, only symptomatic treatment is currently available, and it can lead to serious adverse effects from conventional therapy. Thus, novel therapies for AD are needed in a growing global population. This manuscript provides information on various biomarkers with possible pathogenesis mechanisms, novel treatment strategies such as microalgae, HupA, cannabinoids, and the beneficial effects of coenzyme Q10, bacterial probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and D3 in memory impairment for managing AD. Non-pharmacological treatments such as music therapy, Electroacupuncture (EA), or manual acupuncture (MA) also play an important role in enhancing the effectiveness of conventional pharmacological treatments for AD.

Evaluation of biopsychosocial model for pain management in postoral cancer therapy patients

Background. Approximately 50 % of cancer patients have pain in their daily lives, which is multifaceted sensation goes beyond basic biochemical signal of pain. Oral mucositis is one of the negative consequences with intense pain, discomfort, challenges in speaking and eating. These components collectively influence patient's total quality of life across mental, biological, social aspects. Biopsychosocial model (BPS) is an effective technique for understanding and addressing conceptualization and treatment of pain in cancer patients. The aim of this study is to assess efficacy of the BPS in managing post-cancer distress and potential to improve quality of life for individuals with cancer. Material and Methods. This study evaluated 30 cancer patients who completed radiotherapy and were referred from cancer hospital. The examination encompasses three distinct categories: biological, psychological, and social components. The biological aspect was documented based on mucosal lesions and VAS scores for individuals; followed by photo-biomodulation was given. Palliative care was provided in psychological aspect through implementation of exercise, meditation, music therapy. The social component encompasses community engagement, social activities, counseling services for family members. Patients were categorized into 3 groups – A, B, C. All three components were carefully evaluated and one-month follow-up was done. Results. The outcome derived from statistical analysis of the data collected from groups A, B, and C. When group A was compared to group B, there was 46 % increase in quality of life. When group C was compared to group A, 65 % of patients exhibited favorable quality of life. The average VAS score of patients decreased from 9.2 to 4.5 after Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), demonstrating gradual decrease in discomfort. P value showed statistically significant (&lt;0.05). Conclusion. Healthcare providers can enhance their treatment efficiency, addressing root cause of illness, and enhance overall well-being by incorporating BPS into their practice. Addressing the various elements of biological, psychological, and social factors would have beneficial effect on overall quality of life.

A study to assess the effectiveness of sacral massage and music therapy on pain perception and birth satisfaction among women in labor at selected hospital at Dindigul

The study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of sacral massage and music therapy on pain perception and birth satisfaction among women in labor at selected hospital, at Dindigul. The research approach used for the study was evaluative approach. The research design used for the present study was quasi experimental non-equivalent control group post test only design. The conceptual framework was based on Modified Wiedenbach’s helping art clinical theory (1964). The samples were selected by non - probability purposive sampling technique. Sample size was 60 mothers out of which 30 were in experimental group and 30 were in control group. The tool used for this study was to assess the level of pain perception by using numerical pain rating scale and to assess the birth satisfaction by using birth satisfaction scale. The intervention of sacral massage and music therapy was given. The mean post test score of pain perception in experimental group and control group was 6(SD±0.66) and 8.13(SD±0.66). Respectively mean difference was 2.13. The calculated independent “t” value was 50.45 was significant at p&lt; 0.05, level, which showed that sacral massage, and music therapy was effective in reducing pain perception among women in labor. the mean post test score of birth satisfaction in experimental group and control group was 107.4(SD±6.36) and 83.6(SD±6.12). The mean difference was 23.8 the calculated independent “t” value was 16.08 was significant at p&lt; 0.05, level, which showed that sacral massage and music therapy was effective in improving birth Satisfaction among women in labor. The findings revealed that there is no significant association between post-test level of pain perception and demographic variables. Except religion (χ2 = 119.9), educational status (χ2 = 13.2), occupation (χ2 = 16.25) at P &lt; 0.05 level of significance in experimental group. The findings revealed that there is no significant association between post test level of birth satisfaction and demographic variables. Except age in year (χ2 = 8.1), educational status (χ2= 313.4), occupation (χ2= 31.7), and age at marriage (χ2= 189.6) at P &lt; 0.05 level of significance in experimental group. The statistical findings revealed that sacral massage and music therapy was beneficial and there was a significant reduction in pain perception and improving birth satisfaction among women in labor in experimental group.

“Harmonizing Healing: Exploring The Efficacy of Music Therapy in Alleviating Pain Among Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik.”

“Harmonizing Healing: Exploring The Efficacy of Music Therapy in Alleviating Pain Among Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik.”

Clinical Efficacy of Music Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) By Bioresonance Measurement

Clinical Efficacy of Music Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) By Bioresonance Measurement

A review of artificial intelligence methods enabled music-evoked EEG emotion recognition and their applications.

Music is an archaic form of emotional expression and arousal that can induce strong emotional experiences in listeners, which has important research and practical value in related fields such as emotion regulation. Among the various emotion recognition methods, the music-evoked emotion recognition method utilizing EEG signals provides real-time and direct brain response data, playing a crucial role in elucidating the neural mechanisms underlying music-induced emotions. Artificial intelligence technology has greatly facilitated the research on the recognition of music-evoked EEG emotions. AI algorithms have ushered in a new era for the extraction of characteristic frequency signals and the identification of novel feature signals. The robust computational capabilities of AI have provided fresh perspectives for the development of innovative quantitative models of emotions, tailored to various emotion recognition paradigms. The discourse surrounding AI algorithms in the context of emotional classification models is gaining momentum, with their applications in music therapy, neuroscience, and social activities increasingly coming under the spotlight. Through an in-depth analysis of the complete process of emotion recognition induced by music through electroencephalography (EEG) signals, we have systematically elucidated the influence of AI on pertinent research issues. This analysis offers a trove of innovative approaches that could pave the way for future research endeavors.

A systematic review of melodic intonation therapy used by speech therapists on speech recovery for patients with non-fluent aphasia

Background: Many studies have reported positive results regarding the benefits of melodic intonation therapy (MIT) in patients with non-fluent aphasia. Currently, there is no specific inclusion of speech therapists (STs) in MIT research. Investigating effective speech therapy (ST) techniques to address the language functions hindered by non-fluent aphasia could yield evidence for aphasia rehabilitation research. Objective: This systematic review (SR) examines the effectiveness of the traditional MIT protocol used by STs on speech recovery for patients with non-fluent aphasia after stroke. It also discusses other characteristics of the traditional MIT, such as the participants, the MIT protocol applied, the therapy intensity, and the role of STs. Materials and methods: This SR followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 statement. The four computerized databases (PubMed, Embase, ICTRP, and Google Scholar) were searched in February 2024 to review all empirical findings. We also conducted a hand search in relevant journals. The search yielded 538 studies, of which 2 met the criteria and underwent review. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool for assessing the risk of bias. Furthermore, the protocol was registered in PROSPERO under the reference CRD42024508733. Results: This review included 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 44 patients. We found evidence that MIT significantly improved speech recovery, precise language repetition, and functional communication in patients with non-fluent aphasia. STs were interventionists in MIT research and used MIT following the American manual, and they had previously received MIT training. Conclusion: Our review provides some evidence of the effectiveness of MIT on speech recovery in patients with non-fluent aphasia after stroke. MIT may be a practical alternative to standard ST. There is some indication that MIT requires music therapy (MT) skills and training; therefore, STs must also have these abilities.

Beyond Pharmacotherapy: Investigating the Role of Classical Music in Preoperative Anxiety Management for Cesarean Sections

Preoperative anxiety is a prevalent concern among women undergoing cesarean sections (C-sections), potentially impacting maternal and neonatal outcomes. While pharmacotherapy is commonly used to manage anxiety, non-pharmacological interventions like music therapy offer a promising alternative or adjunct. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of classical music in reducing preoperative anxiety levels in women scheduled for C-sections. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 100 women scheduled for elective C-sections. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (classical music listening) or the control group (standard care). Anxiety levels were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) before and after the intervention. Physiological parameters such as heart rate and blood pressure were also monitored. The intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in both state and trait anxiety scores compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the intervention group exhibited lower heart rate and blood pressure levels post-intervention. In conclusion, classical music listening can be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for reducing preoperative anxiety in women undergoing C-sections. The findings suggest that integrating music therapy into standard preoperative care may enhance patient well-being and contribute to improved surgical outcomes.

Music therapists’ perceptions of creating safety in the context of trauma with children and adolescents: A qualitative study

ABSTRACT Introduction Ensuring the safety of children and adolescents who have experienced trauma is a paramount consideration in therapeutic practices, yet research specifically addressing this within music therapy is lacking. To bridge this gap, the authors aimed to use semi-structured interviews to investigate how experienced music therapists from diverse cultural backgrounds describe providing safety while working with children and adolescents who experienced trauma. Method This research employed hermeneutic phenomenology to analyze the perspectives of 18 music therapists representing 11 countries. Their descriptions of cultivating safety and establishing secure environments were shared via online interviews and techniques from Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) were used to generate results. Results Analysis of the interviews revealed four prominent themes delineating the techniques music therapists use in their sessions to foster safety. These themes encompassed various aspects such as establishing a safe space, implementing a semi-structured program, providing opportunities for control and choice, and thoughtfully incorporating music. Collectively, these themes illuminate the approaches music therapists effectively deploy to create safety in their therapeutic sessions. Discussion The experienced music therapists in this study underscored the importance of attuning to the needs of children and adolescents who have experienced adversity. Newer practitioners may be interested in the ways they described maintaining a delicate balance between openness, flexibility, well-defined boundaries, and a reliable, caring presence. These fundamental elements support the development of safe connections and meaningful engagement, potentially fostering a sense of safety for both therapists and the young people they work with.