Music May Offer Non-Pharmacological Pain Relief for Surgical adn Ill Patients, Research Suggests
October 18, 2025 – New investigations are exploring the potential of music as a therapeutic tool to mitigate pain experienced by individuals recovering from surgery or battling illness. Scientists are actively researching how auditory stimulation can influence pain perception and potentially reduce reliance on opioid-based pain management.
The growing interest stems from the urgent need for alternative pain relief strategies amid the ongoing opioid crisis and increasing concerns about adverse drug effects. Millions suffer chronic or acute pain following medical procedures annually, and a non-invasive, accessible intervention like music therapy could significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.Researchers aim to determine specific musical characteristics – tempo, melody, harmony, and rhythm – that are most effective in modulating pain signals and promoting relaxation. Initial findings suggest personalized music selections may yield the most substantial benefits.
The study of music’s impact on pain isn’t entirely new; anecdotal evidence and smaller studies have long hinted at its analgesic properties. Though, current research is employing advanced neuroimaging techniques to pinpoint the precise mechanisms by which music affects the brain’s pain pathways.Scientists are investigating whether music distracts from pain, triggers the release of endorphins, or alters activity in brain regions associated with emotional processing.
citation: Music could help ease pain from surgery or illness. Scientists are listening (2025, october 18) retrieved 18 October 2025 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-music-ease-pain-surgery-illness.html
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