Music Therapy and Pain

Music and rhythm are among the most basic and universal expressions of life. Music therapy offers various benefits to people with cancer pain. Listening to music can reduce breathing and heartbeat rates and help induce the relaxation response. Music also can be used to make a painful medical procedure more bearable. Using music to reduce pain can be as simple as choosing a favorite CD or playing an instrument. Or you may want to consult with a music therapist who will help you use music to explore feelings and issues related to the pain experience.