Complementary therapies in terminal care: Pain, music creativity and music therapy in palliative care

Journal/Book: The American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care. 1996; 13: 43-49.

Abstract: An analysis of the music therapy literature yilds numerous reports to support the role of music in the alleviation of pain in palliative care. Four theoretical pespectives that support why many patients report reduced pain sensation after music therapy include: the psychological relationship between music and pain; the psychophysiological tehory; spinal mechanisms involved in pain modulation; and the role of endorphins. Considerations significant to the use of music in pain relief include how music, used inappropriately, can aggravate pain sensation. Case studies, which include the use of creative music therapy techniques, points to the efficiacy of music therapy in alleviating the pain experiences of both palliative care patients and their significant others.

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