What's Happening?
Music therapy is being used in hospitals to help manage pain for patients recovering from surgery or dealing with illness. At UC San Diego Health, nurse Rod Salaysay uses music to help patients manage pain, noting improvements in vital signs and reduced
requests for painkillers. Research supports the idea that music can reduce the perception of pain and enhance a person's ability to tolerate it, with the most effective results coming from music chosen by the patients themselves.
Why It's Important?
The integration of music therapy into medical treatment highlights a growing recognition of non-pharmacological approaches to pain management. This method offers a potential reduction in the reliance on pain medication, which can have side effects and lead to dependency. By providing a holistic approach to pain management, music therapy can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience. The approach also underscores the importance of patient-centered care, where individual preferences and active participation in treatment can lead to better health outcomes.
