Music therapy for patients with heart disease?
Some changes are reported.
But from a practical perspective, the benefits of music are unclear, according to this Cochrane review.
First, the details.
- 23 studies that included 1461 patients were reviewed.
- Additional information was sought from the study researchers when necessary.
And, the results.
- Music listening has a moderate but inconsistent effect on anxiety in patients with coronary heart disease.
- Listening to music reduces heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.
- Studies that included 2 or more music sessions showed a small and consistent pain-reducing effect.
- There wasn’t strong evidence for reducing psychological distress.
- No evidence peripheral skin temperature effects.
- No study measured changes in hormone levels.
- Only one study measured quality of life.
The bottom line?
Based on the results of studies that used pre-recorded music, the authors concluded, “the evidence is not strong and the clinical significance unclear.”
OK, but it’s music.
What did the reviewers expect: decreased hospitalizations, reduced need for statins, lower mortality?
IT’S MUSIC!
Isn’t decreased anxiety and improved vital signs — including reduced pain — enough to turn on an easy listening radio station?
4/16/09 13:20 JR
