Music therapy in physical medicine and rehabilitation

Weblink:

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com.libproxy.wlu.ca/doi/10.1046/j.1440-1630.2000.00215.x/full
Journal name, number (year), pp.:

Volume 47 Issue 3, pages 111–118, September 2000

Authors:

Stanley Paul ,PhD, OTR; Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Services, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
and David Ramsey,MA, ACMT-BC; Music Therapy Supervisor, Beth Abraham Health Services and Doctoral candidate, New York University, New York, USA

Abstract:

The therapeutic effects of music are being recognized increasingly in the field of rehabilitation medicine. More music therapists are being employed in physical medicine and rehabilitation centres, with the goal of using music therapy services to assist in the physical recovery and health maintenance of clients. In spite of the benefits of physical rehabilitation programs, client participation to their full potential is often not observed. Music encourages participation in exercises and activities. Music can ease the discomfort and difficulty associated with exercise and therapy activities, and help ensure consistent participation. One of the goals of the music therapist is to provide a means for the client to express him/herself in a musical activity. Music therapy and rehabilitation medicine are starting to find a common niche in working together with clients who have various neurological, orthopaedic, and paediatric conditions. Therapeutic application of music in rehabilitation contributes to the quality of life of individuals with disabilities. Combined goals could include improving strength, range of motion, balance, communication, and cognition. Continued efforts in clinical practice and research will build on the information already available to further define possible applications of music therapy in rehabilitation, and its outcome and benefits. Occupational therapists can use the therapeutic medium of music, and the services of the music therapy discipline, in assisting clients to maximize their functional independence in their daily occupational roles.