Music May Offer a Non-Pharmaceutical Path to Pain Management, studies Suggest
WASHINGTON (AP) – Facing surgery or living with chronic illness? New research indicates a familiar playlist might be a surprisingly effective tool for managing pain. Studies are revealing that listening to music – particularly genres people enjoy – can demonstrably increase pain tolerance, offering a simple, side-effect-free complement to customary medical treatments.
While pain medication remains crucial, scientists are increasingly exploring the potential of music to activate emotional and memory centers in the brain, effectively distracting from discomfort. A recent study found that exposure to preferred music genres – including classical, rock, pop, urban, and electronic – extended participants’ ability to withstand acute pain, as measured by tolerance to very cold temperatures. Importantly, there wasn’t a single ”best” genre; the key factor was personal preference.
“The more people listened to a favorite genre, the more they could endure pain,” explained Dr. emy van der Valk Bouman, a co-author of the research. ”A lot of people thought that classical music would help them more. Actually, we are finding more evidence that what’s best is just the music you like.”
the underlying mechanisms aren’t fully understood, but researchers beleive familiar songs trigger memories and emotions, shifting focus away from pain signals. The act of choosing the music also appears to be significant, providing a sense of control for individuals dealing with chronic conditions. Claire Howlin, director of the Music and Health Psychology Lab at Trinity College Dublin, co-authored a study demonstrating that allowing patients to select their own songs improved their pain tolerance.
“It’s one thing that people can have control over if they have a chronic condition – it gives them agency,” Howlin said.
Further research suggests that attentive listening is crucial. A preliminary study co-authored by a Florida State psychologist indicated that daily, focused listening might reduce chronic pain. “Music has a way of lighting up different parts of the brain,” the psychologist explained, “so you’re giving people this positive emotional bump that takes their mind away from the pain.”
Jazz singer Cecily Gardner, of Culver City, California, shared her personal experience, stating, “Music reduces stress, fosters community, and just transports you to a better place.” Some doctors are now embracing music as a simple, accessible intervention with no known adverse effects.
