Music Therapy –

Music Therapy –

Music therapy is a relatively new form of treatment in the medical field. Some consider it a pseudo science; however numerous trials have shown the field to be an effective supplement to traditional care. Music therapy does not claim to singularly cure any form of disease or disorder, however its primary concern is alleviation some symptoms and aiding in the overall comfort of the patient. Music therapy has been shown in trials to help in treatment of high systolic blood pressure, aggregated heartbeat, general stress, minor chronic pain, depression, and sleeplessness. Music therapy has even been shown the help slow and even reverse some memory damage in patients suffering form Alzheimer’s  through the “Kenny-Rodger’s” effect.

Music therapy, or at the very least its unrefined cousin, has been used widely in many cultures throughout history. Native Americans and many other cultures have used chanting and drumming in healing rituals for centuries. The ancient Greeks viewed music as a force capable of healing and aiding the both the soul and body. As far back as biblical times, we read about David playing the harp to ease King Saul of his bad sprits. Even if we do not accept the bible as a reliable historical source, its contents reflect the culture of the time, and show that music was used for such purposes. The first official and scientific applications of music therapy came late in World War II. Music was used to treat shell shock victims with great success, a treatment that is still in use today. (Though shell shock has become known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Many colleges are now offering full degrees in the subject of music therapy, the first being Michigan State University in 1944. Now there are 77 different colleges offering formal degrees in music therapy accredited by the American Music Therapy Association. (An organization founded by a collective of practicing therapists to promote research and common, safe practice standards.)

The overall goal of music therapy is to treat a psychological element to the patients ailments, thereby translating to alleviation of physical issues just as any other form of psychological therapy functions.

            There are a wide array of methods used, each individual to the patient being considered. Listening to music, talking about it, creating it, even composing are all widely practiced methods.

Sources :

<http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/03/musicheals/>

<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_therapy>

<http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/ComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine/MindBodyandSpirit/music-therapy>