http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract;jsessionid=E1D670194680DC1B7AC41285C9F3016F.journals?fromPage=online&aid=2912768

The Music of Sound: a new approach for children with severe and profound and multiple learning difficulties

British Journal of Music Education (1997), 14 : pp 173-186

Phil Ellis

Abstract
In the two years following the proposed and trials of Sound Therapy (see Ellis, ‘Incidental Music’, BJME 12, 59–70) the approach has been further developed. Working in conjunction with a local special school a non-invasive therapy has been evolved which depends upon the use of music technology. This paper describes the background, development, and modus operandi of Sound Therapy and the ways in which music technology contributes to the programme. An account of the qualitative research tool, by means of which progression and development can be monitored and assessed, is also given. In conclusion, one case study, extending over two years, illustrates the results of this approach.

Keywords: vibroacoustic tgherapy, muisc therapy, low frequency, children

The Experience of Vibroacoustic Therapy in the Therapeutic Intervention of Adolescent Girls

http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08098130409478096

Eha Rüütel, Marika Ratnik, Eda Tamm & Heli Zilensk

Nordic Journal of Music Therapy

Volume 13, Issue 1, 2004

Abstract:
A qualitative approach was used to study the therapeutic intervention based on vibroacoustic therapy (treatment method based on the combined effect of music and low frequency sound vibrations), to which other methods (mood assessment, drawing) had been added according to the therapy plan. The participants were ten girls aged 15-18 with heightened anxiety combined with low self-esteem and/or body image problems. The principles of grounded theory were used to study the experience of the girls and the outcome of the intervention. Three categories describing the meaning of the therapy process emerged in the girls' interviews: “balancing self-discovery,” “tension release,” and “interesting and beneficial experience.” Vibroacoustic therapy can be considered as an important therapy component useful for enhancing coping ability through fulfilling the bodily needs for relaxation, improving self-knowledge through physical selfawareness, and giving peaceful time for reflection.

Keywords: adolescent girls,
vibroacoustic therapy,
music,
drawing,
grounded theory

http://journals.lww.com/hnpjournal/Abstract/2004/05000/Vibroacoustic_Sound_Therapy_Improves_Pain.2.aspx

Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy Improves Pain Management and More
Boyd-Brewer, Chris MA, FAMI; McCaffrey, Ruth ARNP, ND

Holistic Nursing Practice: May/June 2004 - Volume 18 - Issue 3 - p 111-118

Abstract:
Vibroacoustic therapy is a new sound technology that uses audible sound vibrations to reduce symptoms, invoke relaxation, and alleviate stress. This technology is developed based on the recognition that external vibration can influence body function. Research demonstrates the effectiveness of vibroacoustic therapy. Implications for nurses include investigating the possibilities of vibroacoustic therapy in various nursing settings to promote patient well-being and improve the therapeutic environment.

Keywords: low frequency, vibroacoustic therapy

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031940605661767

The Effect Of Vibroacoustic Therapy

Marit Hoem Kvam (author), DSc is leader of research at the National Hospital, Berg Habilitation Centre, Bergsalleen 21, N-0584 Oslo, Norway

Physiotherapy Volume 83, Issue 6, June 1997, Pages 290–295

Abstract:

This paper reports an experimental study to determine the possible effects of a music chair on people with cerebral palsy. The effect of vibroacoustic treatment was evaluated in a double-blind trial. Members of six matched pairs, aged 27–48 years, were randomly allocated to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received two weekly treatments with music plus vibroacoustic waves (low frequency sounds), and the control group received treatment with music alone. Before and after the nine-week project, individuals were videotaped performing gross and fine muscular movements.

Four independent assessors evaluated each movement. Both groups improved their performances on the post-test evaluation. Although there was a tendency towards better performances within the experimental group, the differences were not significant (p > 0.05). No significant differences were found in results from the Nic Waals muscle test, pulse oximetry and drawing/writing tests.

Although users found vibroacoustic treatment pleasant and some individuals showed short-term improvement, there was no unequivocal evidence to support anecdotal reports of beneficial effects from vibroacoustic treatment. Not only is further research needed in order to identify criteria for selecting clients who may benefit and describe protocols of treatment but, as demand commonly follows introduction of a new intervention, caution is advised until risk of adverse effects has been evaluated.

Key Words: Vibroacoustic therapy, music chair, cerebral palsy

http://psycnet.apa.org/psycinfo/1996-15255-001

The psychological and physiological effects of low frequency sound and music.

Wigram, Tony

Music Therapy Perspectives, Vol 13(1), 1995, 16-23.

Abstract:
Examines the psychological and physiological effects of sound by considering a selection of the literature that exists on the effect of music on physical conditions such as pain, muscle tone, blood pressure, and heart rate. Specifically, studies on blood pressure and heart rate, clinical conditions, and the effect of pulsed low frequency sinusoidal tones that have been undertaken using vibroacoustic therapy are summarized. Vibroacoustic therapy employs the element of low frequency sound as a pulsed tone underneath relaxing music. Clients treated with vibroacoustic therapy include those with autism, anxiety neurosis, pulmonary disorders, self-injurious behavior, and spastic and asthmatic conditions.

Keywords: music therapy, low frequency sound, psychology, vibroacoustic therapy

http://www.wfmt.info/Musictherapyworld/modules/archive/stuff/papers/Wigram.pdf

Thesis submitted for the degree of Doctora of Philosophy, St. Georges Hospital Medical School London University

Anthony Lewis Wigram (author)

Abstract:
Vibroacoustic and vibrotactile devices that transmit sound as vibration to the body
have developed over the last 15 years, and have been reported anecdotally to
produce relaxation and reductions in muscle tone, blood pressure and heart rate.
Vibroacoustic (VA) therapy is used in clinical treatment and involves a stimulus that
is a combination of sedative music and pulsed, sinusoidal low frequency tones
between 20Hz and 70Hz, played through a bed or chair containing large speakers.
There is limited evidence to support the efficacy of VA therapy in the clinical
situations in which it is used. The studies in this thesis investigated the clinical effect
of VA therapy, and the effect of elements of the stimulus on non-clinical subjects.
A study on 10 multiply handicapped adults with high muscle tone and spasm
compared the effect of eight trials of VA therapy with a similar number of trials of
relaxing music. A significantly greater range of movement was recorded after VA
therapy than relaxing music. No significant difference was found in changes in
blood pressure or heart rate.
Comparing the effect of VA therapy with music and movement-based physiotherapy
(MMBP) and relaxing music alone on 27 subjects with high muscle tone and
spasticity revealed no significant difference in range of movement between VA
therapy and MMBP, but a significant difference comparing the combined results of
MMBP and VA therapy with relaxing music alone. Additional trials found significant
differences between VA therapy and music alone.
A study on non-clinical subjects (n=39), and a second study (n=52) measured
perceived location of bodily vibrations in response to sinusoidal tones between
20Hz and 70Hz through a VA bed. Reports indicated some that frequencies caused
sensations of resonant vibration consistently in the same places in the body.
A second study on non-clinical subjects (n=60) in three groups found that VA
therapy had a significantly greater effect in reducing arousal when compared with
relaxing music, and a control, and heart rate when VA therapy was compared with a
control. No significant differences were found between the groups in changes in
blood pressure.
A third study (n=60) found no significant differences between four groups when
evaluating the effect of varying rate of amplitude modulation of a 40Hz sinusoidal
tone and a constant tone.
These studies have clarified the efficacy of VA therapy as an intervention for clinical
populations, and the effect of the stimulus on normal subjects. Questions remain
about the nature of the stimulus that is used, and its effect on behaviour.

Keywords: vibroacoustic therapy, music therapy, sound therapy

http://www.thestar.com/living/article/1102258--the-healing-power-of-music

Here is the link of the interview: http://theagenda.tvo.org/content/videoplayersmall/agenda-video?1293597851001

Fibromyalgia tender point pain: A Double blind, placebo-controlled pilot study on music vibration Using the Music Vibration Table (TM)

Chesky, K S, Russell I J, Lopes Y, Kondraske G

Journal of Musculosceletal Pain. Vol 5(3) 1997 by Haworth Press Inc.

To determiniate the immediate effects of music and musically fluctuating vibration on tender point pain in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), because it was known that musically fluctuating vibration in the 60-300Hz frequency range stimulates Pacinian Corpuscles (PC). It was speculated that PC signalsmight suppress nociceptive transmission via adenosine acting on on P1-purinergic receptors at the spinal cord level.

# Pilot Study- A WOMAN WITH FIBROMYALGIA
Olav Skille

PILOT STUDY OF THERAPY PROCEDURE AND EFFECT OF VA-THERAPY ON A WOMAN WITH FIBROMYALGIA.

EQUIPMENT USED:

VA-chair and therapy tapes from Olav Skille

Summary:

The report describes a therapy series using VA-therapy on a female patient, born 1945, 2 children. Diagnosis was made by her physician: Fibromyalgia ? Rheumatism ? She came to VAT by her own initiative.

The therapy series covers an intensive period with several sessions per day over a week's time. Therapy has been continued with regular intervals.

Result: Analgetic effects which progressed to almost pain-free status during intensive therapy. This therapy seems to be more effective than traditional physiotherapy and use of drugs/medicines.

https://sites.google.com/site/vibroacoustictherapyinamerica/3-april-2011/-pilot-study

http://www.lifespirit.org/SHRI-fibromyalgia-studies.htm

http://vibroacoustics.org/FrequencyInfo/Vibroacoustic%20Therapy.pdf

"A program using environmental manipulation, music therapy activities, and the Somatron© Vibroacoustic Chair to reduce agitation behaviors of nursing home residents with psychiatric disorders"

Mercado, Chelsey Sigmon (author); Mercado, Eduardo (author).

Music therapy perspectives24. 1 (2006): 30-38.

Abstract:

Describes the effect of a six-month program of multiple interventions of environmental noise reduction, controlled background music, individualized receptive and active music therapy, and vibroacoustic sessions with the Somatron on agitation among nursing home residents with psychiatric disorders. After environmental intervention, three residents not responding to the changes were referred to music therapy. An assessment instrument, the Somatron Placement Matrix, was developed to assign residents to individualized music therapy, Somatron sessions, or a combination of the two. Results indicated an 82% reduction in accidents and incidents, a 91% reduction of PRN medication, a 36% reduction in STAT orders by physicians, and a reduction of unplanned staff absences of 44%. Individualized music therapy sessions resulted in a 100% decrease in two identified agitation behaviors, a 71% decrease in one identified behavior, and an 11% decrease in one behavior. Baseline agitation behaviors were absent in the Somatron sessions; positive behaviors of closing eyes during sessions, coherent verbalizations during sessions, and positive verbalizations increased.

"Autonomic responses to music and vibroacoustic therapy in Rett Syndrome: A controlled within-subject study"

Bergström-Isacsson, Märith (author); Julu, Peter O.O. (author); Witt-Engerström, Ingegerd (author).

Nordic journal of music therapy16. 1 (2007): 42-59.

Abstract:

[Unedited] Investigates the influence of music and vibroacoustic therapy (VT) on the autonomic nervous system in persons with Rett syndrome (RTT) at the Swedish Rett Centre in Östersund because professionals and families alike often claim that music plays a very important role in the lives of these people. The families even claim that they sometimes use music as "medicine" to calm down the Rett persons when nothing else seems to help. We studied 21 persons with RTT in the years 2003 and 2004. These were patients coming to the Rett Centre for routine brainstem assessment. The control status was the subject’s own baseline autonomic function during rest. Subjects were stimulated using horn music, calming and activating music, then VT and VT with calming music embedded in it. The results show that it was possible to measure responses to music and VT within this group. These responses were unique for different stimuli. The horn music caused physiological arousal, activating music caused sympathetic response, and calming music caused parasympathetic response in our subjects. Observation of behaviours alone might be misleading and may not represent the autonomic responses accurately. It was also impossible to predict responses to different kinds of music. For example, each patient had different and unique calming music. It is concluded that music and VT have measurable effects on brainstem autonomic functions in persons with RTT. The effects are diverse and difficult to detect by observation of behaviours alone therefore would require formal and clinical monitoring of brainstem autonomic functions. This presents a new area for further research. It is hoped that a clear understanding of the diverse effects of music and VT on autonomic functions will be helpful when forming the bases of rational uses of music in clinical management of persons with RTT.s

"Vibroacoustic sound therapy: case studies with children with profound and multiple learning difficulties and the elderly in long-term residential care."

Ellis, Phil;

National Library of Medicine. Studies in health technology and informatics103 (2004): 36-42.

Abstract:

This paper describes the development of Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy, an approach which is being developed for use in special schools for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties, and in long-term care homes for the elderly and the elderly mentally infirm. Using non-invasive techniques and music/sound technology, children and the elderly are being empowered and enabled to (re)discover self expression and communication skills. Two case studies drawn from the world of the young disabled, and from the elderly, illustrate the potential for improving quality of life and well-being in these institutional settings.

Neuroscience Letters, Volume 487, Issue 1, 3 January 2011, Pages 58-60
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304394010013121

Effect of different frequencies of music on blood pressure regulation in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Akiyama K, Sutoo D
Affiliations: Institute of Medical Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan

Abstract:
The effect of different frequencies of music on brain function was investigated through measurement of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Previous studies indicated that exposure to Mozart's music (K. 205) leads to increased calcium/calmodulin-dependent dopamine synthesis in the brain, and that the subsequent increase in dopamine reduces blood pressure via D2 receptors. The present study demonstrated that the blood pressure-reducing response was dependent on the frequency, and was markedly greater at 4k–16k Hz compared with lower frequencies. These findings suggest that music containing high-frequency sounds stimulates dopamine synthesis, and might thereby regulate and/or affect various brain functions.

Keywords: Music therapy; High-frequency sound; Improvement in hypertension; blood pressure

Bioinformatics and Biomedical Engineering (iCBBE), 4th International Conference (June 18-20, 2010), pp. 1-2
http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/freeabs_all.jsp?arnumber=5514922

Status and Prospects of Music Electrotherapy
Authors: Zhang H, Huang H
Affiliations: Electronic and Information Engineering College, Sichuan University, SCU, Chengdu, China 

Abstract:
Music electrotherapy is on the basis of electro-acupuncture, which combined music, electrode with electro-acupuncture. This method draws on the characteristics of both electrotherapy and music therapy music. Music electrotherapy through music and music signals acting on the hearing and body, increase or improve the person's psychological, physiological conditions, so as to achieve health, disease prevention and rehabilitation purposes. In this article, some new ideas and methods based on programmable and distributed automatic system are proposed, in order to improve and perfect the existing music electrotherapy instruments.

Keywords: Music therapy, Music Electrotherapy

Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Volume 18, Issue 5 (October 2010), Pages 224-226
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229910000956

Effects of music therapy on subjective sensations and heart rate variability in treated cancer survivors: A pilot study
Authors: Chuang C-Y, Han W-R, Li P-C, Young S-T
Affiliations: Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan

Abstract:

Objective: Data on the effects of music therapy on subjective sensations and the physiological parameters of heart rate variability (HRV) in treated cancer survivors are scarce. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not music therapy affects the sensations of fatigue, comfort, and relaxation in cancer survivors, and affects the activities of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems as indicated by HRV parameters.
Methods: Twenty-three patients aged 30–67 years and with cancer that had been treated at least 6 months previously received music therapy for about 2 h, which included singing, listening to music, learning the recorder, and performing music. Subjective sensations and electrocardiogram were recorded before and after the music therapy. The low-frequency and high-frequency components of HRV were assessed by the frequency analysis of sequential R wave to R wave intervals of electrocardiogram obtained from 5-min recordings. Subjective sensations were quantitatively assessed using a visual analog mood scale.
Results: Two hours of music therapy significantly increased relaxation sensations and significantly decreased fatigue sensation in treated cancer survivors. Moreover, the HRV parameters showed that parasympathetic nervous system activity increased and sympathetic nervous system activity decreased.
Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence that music therapy may be clinically useful for promoting relaxation sensation and increasing parasympathetic nervous system activity in treated cancer survivors.

Keywords: Music therapy, Cancer survivor Heart rate variability

Biomedical Enginerring and Informatics (BMEI), 3rd International Conference (October 16-18, 2010), pp. 965-968
http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/freeabs_all.jsp?arnumber=5639814

Music therapy on heart rate variability
Authors: Zhou P, Sui F, Zhang A, Wang F, Li G
Affiliations: College of Precision Instrument & Opto-Electronic Enginerring, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China 

Abstract:
Music has good effects on easing pressure and treating depression. However, at present, the evaluation of the effect of music therapy mainly depends on a number of subjective criteria, yet there is no appropriate objective evaluation standard. Some studies have suggested that: Heart rate variability can be used to assess the activity of sympathetic nervous system and parasympathetic nervous system. Since music can affect the activity of autonomic nervous system, some parameters of heart rate variability thus can be used as indicators to measure the effect of music therapy. Our study focused on the influence of music therapy on heart rate variability. Experiments were performed upon 16 undergraduates and 4 middle-aged women. As the music treatment goes on, subjectives show significant relaxation. Heart rate variability in very low frequency component (VLF), low frequency component (LF), high frequency component (HF) increase significantly after music treatment, while the LF / HF ratio has no significant change. Approximate entropy after music therapy is also lower than before. These studies suggest that relaxing music can increase the activity of parasympathetic nervous system.

Keywords: Music Therapy, Depression, Heart Rate Variability, Parasympathetic Nervous System

International Heart Journal, Vol. 50 (2009), No. 1, pp.95-110
http://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ihj/50/1/50_95/_article

Effects of Music Therapy on Autonomic Nervous System Activity, Incidence of Heart Failure Events, and Plasma Cytokine and Catecholamine Levels in Elderly Patients With Cerebrovascular Disease and Dementia
Authors: Okada K, Kurita A, Takase B, Otsuka T, Kodani E, Kusama Y, Atarashi H, and Mizuno K
Affiliations: Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Nippon Medical School Tama-Nagayama Hospital; Fukuinkai Medical Clinic; Division of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical College Research Institute; Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Nippon Medical School; and Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Nippon Medical School

Abstract:
Music therapy (MT) has been used in geriatric nursing hospitals, but there has been no extensive research into whether it actually has beneficial effects on elderly patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and dementia. We investigated the effects of MT on the autonomic nervous system and plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels in elderly patients with CVD and dementia, since these are related to aging and chronic geriatric disease. We also investigated the effects of MT on congestive heart failure (CHF) events.
Eighty-seven patients with pre-existing CVD were enrolled in the study. We assigned patients into an MT group (n = 55) and non-MT group (n = 32). The MT group received MT at least once per week for 45 minutes over 10 times. Cardiac autonomic activity was assessed by heart rate variability (HRV). We measured plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels in both the MT group and non-MT group. We compared the incidence of CHF events between these two groups. In the MT group, rMSSD, pNN50, and HF were significantly increased by MT, whereas LF/HF was slightly decreased. In the non-MT group, there were no significant changes in any HRV parameters. Among cytokines, plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the MT group was significantly lower than those in the non-MT group. Plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline levels were significantly lower in the MT group than in the non-MT group. CHF events were less frequent in the MT group than in the non-MT group (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that MT enhanced parasympathetic activities and decreased CHF by reducing plasma cytokine and catecholamine levels.

Keywords: Music therapy, Cardiac autonomic activity, Heart rate variability, Heart failure; Dementia

Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing, May/June 2010, vol. 27, no. 3: 146-155
http://jpo.sagepub.com/content/27/3/146.short

Music Therapy to Reduce Pain and Anxiety in Children With Cancer Undergoing Lumbar Puncture: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nguyen TN, Nilsson S, Hellstrom A-L, Bengtson A
Affiliations: National Hospital of Paediatrics, Hanoi, Vietnam; Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden

Abstract:
A nonpharmacological method can be an alternative or complement to analgesics.The aim of this study was to evaluate if music medicine influences pain and anxiety in children undergoing lumbar punctures. A randomized clinical trial was used in 40 children (aged 7-12 years) with leukemia, followed by interviews in 20 of these participants. The participants were randomly assigned to a music group (n = 20) or control group (n = 20). The primary outcome was pain scores and the secondary was heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation measured before, during, and after the procedure. Anxiety scores were measured before and after the procedure. Interviews with open-ended questions were conducted in conjunction with the completed procedures. The results showed lower pain scores and heart and respiratory rates in the music group during and after the lumbar puncture. The anxiety scores were lower in the music group both before and after the procedure. The findings from the interviews confirmed the quantity results through descriptions of a positive experience by the children, including less pain and fear.

Keywords: Music Therapy, Anxiety, Non-pharmacological Therapy, Pain

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 2 (March 16, 2011)
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD005623.pub2/abstract

Non-pharmacological interventions for breathlessness in advanced stages of malignant and non-malignant diseases
Authors: Bausewein C, Booth S, Gysels M, Higginson IJ

Abstract:

Background: Breathlessness is a common and distressing symptom in advanced stages of malignant and non-malignant diseases. Appropriate management requires both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
Objectives: Primary objective was to determine effectiveness of non-pharmacological and non-invasive interventions to relieve breathlessness in participants suffering from the five most common conditions causing breathlessness in advanced disease.
Search strategy: The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, British Nursing Index, PsycINFO, Science Citation Index Expanded, AMED, The Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Trials Register, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness were searched in June 2007.
Selection criteria: We included randomised controlled and controlled clinical trials assessing the effects of non-pharmacological and non-invasive interventions to relieve breathlessness in participants described as suffering from breathlessness due to advanced stages of cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease, chronic heart failure or motor neurone disease.
Data collection and analysis: Two review authors independently assessed relevant studies for inclusion. Data extraction and quality assessment was performed by three review authors and checked by two other review authors. Meta-analysis was not attempted due to heterogeneity of studies.
Main results: Forty-seven studies were included (2532 participants) and categorised as follows: single component interventions with subcategories of walking aids (n = 7), distractive auditory stimuli (music) (n = 6), chest wall vibration (CWV, n = 5), acupuncture/acupressure (n = 5), relaxation (n = 4), neuro-electrical muscle stimulation (NMES, n = 3) and fan (n = 2). Multi-component interventions were categorised in to counselling and support (n = 6), breathing training (n = 3), counselling and support with breathing-relaxation training (n = 2), case management (n = 2) and psychotherapy (n = 2).
There was a high strength of evidence that NMES and CWV could relieve breathlessness and moderate strength for the use of walking aids and breathing training. There is a low strength of evidence that acupuncture/acupressure is helpful and no evidence for the use of music. There is not enough data to judge the evidence for relaxation, fan, counselling and support, counselling and support with breathing-relaxation training, case management and psychotherapy. Most studies have been conducted in COPD patients, only a few studies included participants with other conditions.
Authors' conclusions: Breathing training, walking aids, NMES and CWV appear to be effective non-pharmacological interventions for relieving breathlessness in advanced stages of disease.
Citation: Bausewein C, Booth S, Gysels M, Higginson IJ. Non-pharmacological interventions for breathlessness in advanced stages of malignant and non-malignant diseases. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD005623. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005623.pub2

Keywords: Music Therapy, Cancer, Palliative and Supportive Care, Symptomatic Relief

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 10 (October 5, 2011)
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006275.pub2/abstract

Non-pharmacological management of infant and young child procedural pain
Authors: Pillai Riddell RR, Racine NM, Turcotte K, Uman LS, Horton RE, Din Osmun L, Ahola Kohut S, Hillgrove Stuart J, Stevens B, Gerwitz-Stern A

Abstract:

Background: Infant acute pain and distress is commonplace. Infancy is a period of exponential development. Unrelieved pain and distress can have implications across the lifespan. 
Objectives: To assess the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for infant and child (up to three years) acute pain, excluding breastmilk, sucrose, and music. Analyses accounted for infant age (preterm, neonate, older) and pain response (pain reactivity, pain-related regulation). 
Search strategy: We searched CENTRAL in The Cochrane Library (2011, Issue 1), MEDLINE (1966 to April 2011), EMBASE (1980 to April 2011), PsycINFO (1967 to April 2011), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (1982 to 2011), Dissertation Abstracts International (1980 to 2011) and www.clinicaltrials.gov. We also searched reference lists and contacted researchers via electronic list-serves.
Selection criteria: Participants included infants from birth to three years. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or RCT cross-overs that had a no-treatment control comparison were eligible for inclusion in the analyses. We examined studies that met all inclusion criteria except for study design (e.g. had an active control) to qualitatively contextualize results.
Data collection and analysis: We refined search strategies with three Cochrane-affiliated librarians. At least two review authors extracted and rated 51 articles. Study quality ratings were based on a scale by Yates and colleagues. We analyzed the standardized mean difference (SMD) using the generic inverse variance method. We also provided qualitative descriptions of 20 relevant but excluded studies.
Main results: Fifty-one studies, with 3396 participants, were analyzed. The most commonly studied acute procedures were heel-sticks (29 studies) and needles (n = 10 studies). The largest SMD for treatment improvement over control conditions on pain reactivity were: non-nutritive sucking-related interventions (preterm: SMD -0.42; 95% CI -0.68 to -0.15; neonate: SMD -1.45, 95% CI -2.34 to -0.57), kangaroo care (preterm: SMD -1.12, 95% CI -2.04 to -0.21), and swaddling/facilitated tucking (preterm: SMD -0.97; 95% CI -1.63 to -0.31). For immediate pain-related regulation, the largest SMDs were: non-nutritive sucking-related interventions (preterm: SMD -0.38; 95% CI -0.59 to -0.17; neonate: SMD -0.90, 95% CI -1.54 to -0.25), kangaroo care (SMD -0.77, 95% CI -1.50 to -0.03), swaddling/facilitated tucking (preterm: SMD -0.75; 95% CI -1.14 to -0.36), and rocking/holding (neonate: SMD -0.75; 95% CI -1.20 to -0.30). The presence of significant heterogeneity limited our confidence in the lack of findings for certain analyses.
Authors' conclusions: There is evidence that different non-pharmacological interventions can be used with preterms, neonates, and older infants to significantly manage pain behaviors associated with acutely painful procedures.
Citation: Pillai Riddell RR, Racine NM, Turcotte K, Uman LS, Horton RE, Din Osmun L, Ahola Kohut S, Hillgrove Stuart J, Stevens B, Gerwitz-Stern A. Non-pharmacological management of infant and young child procedural pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 10. Art. No.: CD006275. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006275.pub2

Keywords: Music Therapy, Anaestheia, Pain Control, Orthpaedics, Trauma, Acute Pain, Treatment of Children

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 12 (December 7, 2011)
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006013.pub3/abstract

Interventions for reducing anxiety in women undergoing colposcopy
Authors: Galaal K, Bryant A, Deane KHO, Al-Khaduri M, Lopes AD

Abstract:

Background: Prior to the development of cervical cancer abnormal cervical cells can be detected on a cervical smear. The usual practice following an abnormal cervical smear is to perform colposcopy. Colposcopy is the visualisation of the cervix using a binocular microscope. Women experience high levels of anxiety and negative emotional responses at all stages of cervical screening. High levels of anxiety before and during colposcopy can have adverse consequences, including pain and discomfort during the procedure and high loss to follow-up rates. This review evaluates interventions designed to reduce anxiety levels during colposcopic examination.
Objectives: To compare the efficacy of various interventions aimed at reducing anxiety during colposcopic examination in women.
Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Gynaecological Cancer Group Trials Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Issue 3, 2010, MEDLINE and EMBASE up to July 2010. We also searched registers of clinical trials, abstracts of scientific meetings, reference lists of included studies and contacted experts in the field.
Selection criteria: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions to reduce anxiety during colposcopic examination.
Data collection and analysis: Two review authors independently abstracted data and assessed risk of bias. Mean differences for anxiety levels, knowledge scores, pain, patient satisfaction and psychosexual dysfunction in women who underwent colposcopy were pooled in a random effects meta-analyses.
Main results: We found six trials that met our inclusion criteria. These trials assessed the effectiveness of different interventions for reducing anxiety in women undergoing colposcopy for the first time.
All comparisons were restricted to single trial analyses or meta analysis of just two trials. There was evidence from a reasonably large trial (n = 220) that was at low risk of bias to suggest that music during colposcopy significantly reduced anxiety levels (MD = -4.80, 95% CI: -7.86 to -1.74) and pain experienced during the procedure (MD = -1.71, 95% CI: -2.37 to -1.05) compared to not listening to music. There was no statistically significant difference between anxiety levels prior to colposcopy in women receiving information leaflets versus no leaflets and information leaflets, video and counselling versus information leaflets and video with no counselling. However, knowledge scores were significantly higher and psychosexual dysfunction scores were significantly lower in women who received leaflets compared to those who did not so there was some sort of benefit to giving patients information leaflets. There is evidence for video colposcopy from a quasi randomised trial which assessed 81 women showing significant anxiety reduction.
Authors' conclusions: Anxiety appears to be reduced by playing music during colposcopy. Although information leaflets did not reduce anxiety levels, they did increase knowledge levels and are therefore useful in obtaining clinical consent to the colposcopic procedure. Leaflets also contributed to improved patient quality of life by reducing psychosexual dysfunction.
Citation: Galaal K, Bryant A, Deane KHO, Al-Khaduri M, Lopes AD. Interventions for reducing anxiety in women undergoing colposcopy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 12. Art. No.: CD006013. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006013.pub3

Keywords: Music Therapy, Gynecology, Cervix, Cancer, Anxiety, Psychosexual Dysfunction

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 2 (April 15, 2009)
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006914.pub2/abstract

Music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving maternal and infant outcome
Authors: Laopaiboon M, Lumbiganon P, Martis R, Vatanasapt P, Somjaivong B

Abstract:
Background: Evidence on the benefits of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to improve clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants has not been established.
Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving clinical and psychological outcomes for mothers and infants.
Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 September 2008).
Selection criteria: We included randomised controlled trials comparing music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia to standard care alone.
Data collection and analysis: Two review authors, Malinee Laopaiboon and Ruth Martis, independently assessed eligibility, risk of bias in included trials and extracted data. We analysed continuous outcomes using a mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).
Main results: One trial involving 76 women who planned to have their babies delivered by caesarean section met the inclusion criteria, but data were available for only 64 women. This trial was of low quality with unclear allocation concealment and only a few main clinical outcomes reported for the women. The trial did not report any infant outcomes. It appears that music added to standard care during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia had some impact on pulse rate at the end of maternal contact with the neonate in the intra-operative period (MD -7.50 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -14.08 to -0.92) and after completion of skin suture for the caesarean section (MD -7.37 fewer beats per minute, 95% CI -13.37 to -1.37). There was also an improvement in the birth satisfaction score (maximum possible score of 35) (MD of 3.38, 95%CI 1.59 to 5.17). Effects on other outcomes were either not significant or not reported in the one included trial.
Authors' conclusions: The findings indicate that music during planned caesarean section under regional anaesthesia may improve pulse rate and birth satisfaction score. However, the magnitude of these benefits is small and the methodological quality of the one included trial is questionable. Therefore, the clinical significance of music is unclear. More research is needed to investigate the effects of music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia on both maternal and infant outcomes, in various ethnic pregnant women, and with adequate sample sizes.
Citation: Laopaiboon M, Lumbiganon P, Martis R, Vatanasapt P, Somjaivong B. Music during caesarean section under regional anaesthesia for improving maternal and infant outcomes. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD006914. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006914.pub2.

Keywords: Music Therapy, Caesarian Section, Mother, Infant

Neurosonic-method is quite unique in sleeping disorders and recovery. We get great results from all clinics and the people get rid of sleeping pills quickly. Similarly, psycho-physical recovery is remarkably fast and efficient. We are launching two separate studies on these topics related to this during the winter. The results are expected next year.
Low-frequency therapy will revolutionize the treatment area within a few years, especially in sleep disorders. My faith is so strong and I will do everything so that this becomes possible.

Cheers,

Marco

Hello,

I am a graduate student researching the experiences of a profoundly deaf individual receiving music therapy. Part of the music therapy session will involve using the physioacoustic chair.

I have been having a hard time finding current research on the use of VAT with a profoundly deaf individual and current research on the use of music therapy(clinical improvisation) with this population. Does anyone have any suggestions/references to pass along?

Thanks!

There are many interesting ways one may become a co-author of a copyright work, but in one of its recent decisions the Polish Supreme Court seems to have added a new and quite interesting option. You can namely become a co-author if you delete a few sentences from a scientific article, sentences you believe are factually incorrect.

The court’s decision was made based on the following facts: The defendant wrote an article about music therapy, i.e. applying music in medical treatment. Not being a physician herself, the author had requested three colleagues to verify the article and, as a result, they suggested deleting some parts, which, in their view, were not compatible with accepted medical knowledge (they were probably right, as one of the deleted sentences considered replacing anesthesia by music during surgery, which even to devoted music lovers must sound rather extreme). The defendant initially agreed to publish the article together with her – then – colleagues as co-authors, but later changed her mind. The colleagues duly sued to have their co-authorship recognized and, in the eyes of many experts surprisingly, won in all instances, including the Supreme Court.

The judgment is easy to criticize, because the court seems to have forgotten some basic precepts of copyright protection, and especially that copyright does not protect the actual “knowledge” contained in a publication. It also provokes the question whether all reviewers in scientific journals or university professors tutoring students, who certainly quite often (rightly or wrongly) consider certain parts of the reviewed works inaccurate or incorrect and have them deleted should not be regarded co-authors (if so, this would probably have to be the case with all university professors guiding their students through a thesis!).

But the problem goes further, since it is undeniably true that authorship in copyright is ill-fitted for a large number of scientific publications. What counts in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics and other natural sciences is who made the discovery, formulated a theory, etc, and not who described it in a publication as nobody reads such publications for the purity of form and elegance of style. To recognise as the author the person who has not contributed much to the described experiment and to deny authorship to those who made the largest contribution is against common sense. To recognise the real contribution may be against the principles of copyright law.

When the Polish Supreme Court observed that co-authorship existed if “in consequence of the changes introduced by the plaintiffs, a work of a different character was created which without the plaintiffs’ contribution would have taken a different shape.” it might have been onto something, at least as far as scientific works are concerned, but in this very case the decision is in my opinion rather obviously wrong, and should not be followed.

Polish Supreme Court, June 22, 2010, II CSK 527/10

From Kluwer Copyright Blog http://kluwercopyrightblog.com/2011/11/02/authorship-by-deletion-supreme-court-june-22-2010-ii-csk-52710/

Medical and Health researchers from Toronto talk informally about their current and on-going interests in music and related research projects.

Included are researchers from
Royal Conservatory of Music: Dr. Ann Patteson

Featured speaker
Dr. David Alter, noted cardiologist and songwriter
University of Toronto

Participating researchers:
Dr. Joseph Chan (Sunnybrook), Otolaryngologist-in-Chief
Dr. Larry Picard (Mount Sinai), Neurology
Dr. Karen Gordon (Sick Kids), Audiologist, Cochlear Implant Program
Dr. Amy Clements-Cortes (Baycrest), Senior Music Therapist
Dr. Tom Chau (Holland-Bloorview), Senior Scientist and Canada Research Chair in Pediatric Rehabilitation Engineering
Dr. John Chong (Musicians’ Clinics of Canada), Medical Director
Dr. Heidi Ahonen (Laurier), Director, Conrad Institute for Music Therapy Research
Dr. Ann Patteson (RCM), International/National Director of Research for Learning Through the Arts

Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Walter Hall, Edward Johnson Building
7:15 – 9:00 pm
Free admission

Posters to our forums now have the ability to identify themselves using a signature. Let people know your passion... or your work.

Just go to your profile and click edit... add your signature and save!

Very interesting research at thePsychiatric Times. Vol. 28 No. 8

How Psychotherapy Changes the Brain - Understanding the Mechanisms
By Hasse Karlsson

http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/display/article/10168/1926705?GUID=3AB351D1-12A1-4E3F-B4EA-D533914FF5D1&rememberme=1&ts=16092011

Psychotherapy Research - Implications for Practice
By Geoffrey D. Carr, PhD, RPsych

Published at the Psychiatric Times www.psychiatrictimes.com (Aug 12/11) Vol:28 no:8

Conclusion

For prescribing psychiatrists who want to offer treatment alternatives to patients who prefer to avoid medication, the evidence is clear that psychotherapy is an effective choice. Even in cases in which medication is accepted, the evidence suggests that psychotherapy may significantly improve patient outcomes. Unfortunately, at this point there is little available guidance on which psychotherapy is most effective and which psychotherapists will best serve your patients.

As unscientific as it may seem, in the absence of other information, the best evidence of therapist effectiveness may be the response of patients. If patients report that they really like their therapist and that he or she is definitely helping them, that therapist would likely be a good bet for other patients. Most valuable, however, will be referring to psychotherapists who systematically measure their patients’ progress and how the patients respond to therapy.

While the evidence on the benefits of tracking the alliance and outcome is clear and robust, it is still in its infancy. Therefore, there is still no easy way to find out about therapists who routinely use these types of measures beyond inquiring. It appears to be, however, the most important question to ask.

Stress and aging

A question of attitude

The link between chronic stress and a marker of old age is being disentangled

http://www.economist.com/node/18526881?story_id=18526881

Is therapy a 'fountain of youth'?

I have just analyzed the data collected of our qualitative pilot study:"Low Frequency Sound Treatment Promoting Physical and Emotional Relaxation among Music Students, Faculty and Staff". The results are fascinating and we have now started writing the report/publication...
If you have any useful references of previous research we should be aware of, that would be helpful!

Greetings,
Heidi Ahonen

Abstract

Low frequency sound has many applications in medicine but the efficacy and effectiveness of low frequency sound treatment in health prevention remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives and potentials of physioacoustic chair’s low frequency sound treatment when applied to daily activities amongst a sample of music students, faculty and/or staff, and to examine how participants view the benefits of the intervention for their well-being, health and health-related activities. The results show that the physioacoustic low frequency treatment added to a participants’ subjective well-being by increasing their physical and emotional relaxation level, decreasing pain and stress, and increasing emotion enrichment and concentration. The study served as a pilot, to confirm stakeholder interest and to gain information on the feasibility of a larger study.

Introduction

Low frequency sound has many applications to medicine. However, the extent to which human beings utilize and perceive low frequencies as beneficial when applied to their health prevention programs remain unknown, and the efficacy and effectiveness of low frequency sound treatment in health prevention and well-being remains unclear.

The aim of this qualitative pilot study was to develop a clearer description of this phenomenon, based on participants’ perceptions of their low frequency sound treatment experiences. The purpose of was also to explore the perspectives and potentials of the physioacoustic low frequency sound treatment process when applied to daily activities among sample of music students, faculty and/or staff. A final objective was to determine the feasibility of administering a further, quantitative study exploring the perspectives of participants regarding the application of low frequency treatment to health.

Research questions were: (1) What is the participants’ subjective experience concerning the low frequency treatment? (2) How participants perceive low frequency treatment to impact on their health and well-being?

Methodology

Data Collection

Original data consisted of 11 volunteering participants: Music students (n=9), faculty/staff (n=2), males (n=2), females (n=9). The low frequency sound treatment process took place in the end of a winter semester, which is usually very stressful time for music students, faculty, and staff.

The frequencies were delivered using the physioacoustic method (Lehikoinen, 1994, 1997, 1998). The participants were sitting on an arm chair and the physioacoustic software produced and controlled sound frequencies from its six speakers allowing the whole body to experience its effects. The software uses low frequencies, between 27-113 Hz. frequencies to cause the sound to vary about a fixed pitch (scanning). This is to ensure correct resonance frequencies. Participants sense a pulse-like sensation, a traveling sound pressure in the body that facilitates circulation (Lehikoinen, 1990). When sitting in the chair, legs, thighs, buttocks, back, shoulder, neck, and head were to be in contact with the surface of the chair at all times. Participants were instructed to close their eyes.

Each participant received an individually selected frequencies and physioacoustic relaxation/massage programmes according to their needs (i.e. general relaxation, intensive back massage, shoulder massage). Therefore the individual session time varied between 30 min to 60 min.

The treatment process length varied. Eight of the participants received 8 sessions during the 8 weeks period, two of the participants received 6 sessions, and one participant only 4 sessions. It was the goal that all participants would receive 8 sessions during the 8 weeks period. However, due to the time-table issues, this was not always possible. Therefore, to ensure the validity of the study the data analysis only consists data of 10 participants who received minimum of 6 sessions, once a week.

In the beginning and in the end of the process, and in the beginning and in the end of each session participants were asked to answer structured qualitative questionnaires.

The pre- process questionnaire included the following open-ended questions investigating participant’s physical sensations (such as tension, pain, relaxed). If they felt any tension, pain etc. they were instructed to color the attached “Body illustration” to best describe the area and to write down what they felt in that area. They were also asked to describe their emotions coming into this session. They were asked to make use of the attached “Feeling Wheel” illustration and color the applicable feelings. Participants were also asked to rate their emotional and/or physical stress level using the following 5-point scale: 0=no stress at all 1= little bit stress 2= manageable stress level 3= Elevated stress level 4=lots of stress 5=Enormous amount of stress. If they were currently experiencing stress, they were also asked to describe the source of it. Participants were also asked about their present sleep habits, and their present ability to focus and concentrate on daily routine task.

The post-process questionnaire included many of the same topics but participants were also asked to evaluate, what effect, if any, do they feel that the process of these sessions have had on the level of stress in their life, sleeping patterns, emotions, concentration/alertness, and general well-being.? They were asked to describe any changes.

In the beginning of each session the participants answered pre-session questionnaire and in the end of each session, the filled post-session questionnaires. Pre-session questions were same as the pre-process questions. The post-session questions also included questions about any images experienced during the session.

During the process the music therapists conducting the treatment kept their session notes concerning the Physioacoustic programme used and its rationale, minutes, music used, and general comments (i.e. how did the participant reacted during the treatment? Bodily reactions, emotions, images, discussion topics).

Data Analysis

The research design of this study was based on qualitative (Denzin & Lincoln, 2000), abductive (Peirce, 1839-1914), and descriptive (Bruscia, 2005, p.81) paradigm. Phenomenology (Van Manen, 1990; Polkinghorne, 1989; Forinash & Grocke, 2005, p. 323; Wheeler, 2005;) was used as main research method to analyze the experience of the participants and the outcome of the intervention.

Phenomenological approach allowed to focus on the richness of participants’ experience, seek to understand a situation from their own frame of reference – as experienced by them. The point of phenomenological research was to borrow participants’ experiences in order to understand the deeper meaning of it in the context of the low frequency intervention as a therapeutic tool (Van Manen, 1984 in Baker et. Al, 1992, p. 1357). NVivo qualitative software analysis program was used for the text-analysis of the structured, qualitative questionnaires. Following Van Manen’s phenomenological method (1997) the text was read several times and the statements that were particularly relevant for the phenomenon under investigation were identified and highlighted. These then became the beginning threads of the thematic analysis (Borkan, 1999).

The following sections introduce the results of the study. They are presented as descriptive and explorative categories, not as a multiple case study. This kind of holistic description “gives the what, when, where, and how, without the whys. It is concerned with discerning what constitutes the phenomenon”(Bruscia, 2005, p. 89). For the purpose of this article, they have been linked to the mindfulness theory and… (add meaningfulness theory here…) It should be noted that it would be beyond the scope of this article to describe the entirety of this study in detail.

Results

Low frequency sound intervention - increased well-being in daily life - physical and emotional relaxation

The results of this study show that low frequency sound treatment can have a positive effect for participants’ overall well-being in their daily life: “…I feel it has increased my well-being. I experienced joy in the chair…” Increased well-being includes both physical and emotional relaxation. The descriptive categories created based on participants experiences focus on physical pain and tension, emotion enrichment, stress management, and concentration skills. The results show that pain and tension decreased, sense of peace, self-reflection, and clarity increased as well as focus and alertness.

Descriptive Categories:

1. Increased well-being in daily life

1.1 Physical relaxation
1.1.1 Pain/tension management
1.1.1.1 Decreased physical pain and tension

1.2 Emotional relaxation

1.2.1 Emotion enrichment
1.2.1.1 Increased inner peace
1.2.1.2 Increased self-reflection
1.2.1.3 Increased clarity

1.2.2 Stress management
1.2.2.1 Decreased Stress
1.2.2.2 Space to re-charge
1.2.2.3 Increased coping skills

1.2.3 Concentration skills
1.2.3.1 Increased focus
1.2.3.2 Increased alertness

Hi,

Our websites are now open in English and Swedish. Please, visit www.neurosonic.fi/en or
www.neurosonic.fi/sv

Regards,

Marco Kärkkäinen
The founder of Neurosonic Finland Ltd.