Music Therapy

In this treatment, music and rhythm are used to improve physical and psychological functioning and provide an alternative means of communication for persons who are unable to put their feelings or thoughts into words.

Origins

Music therapy probably began when the earliest humans stomped or clapped to invoke healing spirits or to exorcise a sick person's demons. Greek myths contain metaphors for the healing power of music, and musical cures were part of many ancient cultures and religions.

More recently, a number of American health professionals have adopted music therapy in their practices. One doctor noted for his work in this field is Oliver Sacks, a neurologist and the author of Awakenings, who recognized the healing power of music in 1969 when working with catatonic patients. His 1973 book, later made into a movie, described how music therapy helped many of these patients adjust to the world around them after years of being catatonic. At the Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine in New York, music therapy has been integrated into programs for patients of all ages who have both physical and/or menial disabilities.

Practitioners

Licensed practitioners have completed an approved course of study and are certified by the American Association for Music Therapy, the National Association for Music Therapy, or the Certification Board for Music Therapy.

When Is Music Therapy Used

Music therapy encompasses three major subdivisions:

Medicine: In this practice, music is used to help manage organic disorders, such as pain, and for rehabilitation after a stroke or a serious accident. The aged and patients with Parkinson's disease improve coordination and learn to walk with a steadier gait by exercising to music. Singing or playing certain musical instruments may contribute to improved lung function. Singing is also used to overcome speech disorders.

Psychotherapy: Music, as a universal language, can help psychotherapists to communicate with patients who are unable to verbalize their problems. It is especially beneficial in treating autistic and emotionally disturbed children.

Special education: In this application, music helps improve the coordination of children with neurological disabilities, as well as those who are blind or deaf. When incorporated into group activities, it also contributes to socialization. How it works

The healing effects of music on all aspects of mind/body function are universally accepted but not scientifically understood. Some researchers believe that music reaches a part of the brain that is not involved with verbal skills. For example, old songs often spark remarkable responses from Alzheimer's patients. Some researchers believe that music activates a flow of stored memory that is otherwise inaccessible.

Research suggests that musical experiences may also trigger the production of endorphins, brain chemicals that are natural painkillers. Studies by anesthesiologists indicate that playing music during surgery reduces the need for anesthesia. Dentists have also observed that their patients don't need as much painkiller when music is being played.

What to Expect

Activities may proceed on a one-to-one basis or in a group, depending on the desired result. Participants join in actively or listen passively. For example, a young group may drum rhythmically or exercise to jazz, while geriatric patients may 4 listen to music that was popular during their younger years.