Groundbreaking Pilot Study Highlights Role of Music Therapy in Managing Postoperative Pain After Pancreatic Surgery
A new pilot study reveals that music therapy can effectively reduce pain and improve recovery after pancreatic surgery, paving the way for enhanced holistic pain management strategies.
A pioneering pilot study conducted by University Hospitals Connor Whole Health has demonstrated the feasibility and potential benefits of using music therapy to ease pain and facilitate recovery in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. The research involved live music-assisted relaxation and imagery sessions, which patients found beneficial and engaging throughout their postoperative recovery process. Participants listened to recordings of the therapy afterward, supporting continuous symptom management.
The study also explored blood sampling techniques to understand the underlying biological mechanisms, specifically blood gene expression changes, involved in the analgesic effects of music therapy. Although collecting blood samples posed some challenges, the successful completion of the intervention and positive patient feedback affirm the promise of this approach.
The findings, published in Global Advances in Integrative Medicine and Health, indicate that music therapy is a promising complementary treatment for managing post-surgical pain, which is often challenging despite pharmacological care. This research supports the integration of music-based interventions into holistic postoperative care, emphasizing the importance of understanding how such therapies modulate biological pathways.
Experts like Dr. Richard S. Hoehn and Mr. Samuel Rodgers-Melnick highlight that this study is a vital step towards elucidating the gene expression mechanisms related to pain relief through music. Future studies will focus on refining blood collection methods, expanding participant eligibility, and extending intervention duration to deepen understanding and enhance implementation.
Overall, this study underscores the role of nonpharmacologic options like music therapy in comprehensive pain management strategies, potentially improving patient outcomes and recovery experiences after complex surgeries. The research is part of ongoing efforts to incorporate evidence-based integrative medicine approaches in surgical oncology care.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-foundation-music-therapy-pain-pancreatic.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Innovative RNA-Based Approach Targets CNNM4 Protein to Combat Rare and Aggressive Liver Cancer
A novel RNA-based therapy targeting CNNM4 protein shows promise in slowing the progression of aggressive liver cancer, opening new avenues for personalized treatment.
Advancements in 3D Tumor Modeling for Colorectal Cancer Research
A new study from the Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute advances 3D tumor spheroid models in colorectal cancer, improving research reproducibility and biological relevance.
AI-Driven Eye Scans Predict Risk of Cognitive Decline and Dementia
Researchers from NUS Medicine have developed an AI-based retinal imaging biomarker, RetiPhenoAge, which predicts the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. This innovative, non-invasive tool aids early detection and could transform cognitive health screening worldwide.
Potential of Diabetes Medications in Treating Alcohol Use Disorder
Emerging research suggests that diabetes drugs targeting GLP-1 and GIP receptors may help reduce alcohol consumption and improve liver health, promising new avenues for alcohol use disorder treatment.