Music Therapy for Chronic Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether music therapy can improve the quality of life for people hospitalized with COPD (a lung disease) or heart failure. Participants will either receive music therapy sessions or continue with their usual care. The researchers aim to determine if music therapy reduces stress and hospital readmissions while boosting confidence in managing health. Ideal candidates have been hospitalized with COPD or heart failure and will have internet access and a device for virtual sessions after discharge. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative care options that could enhance the health management experience.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems likely that you can continue your usual medications, but it's best to confirm with the trial coordinators.
What prior data suggests that music therapy is safe for chronic disease patients?
Research shows that music therapy is generally safe for patients. Many studies have found that music therapy can reduce anxiety, pain, and other symptoms without causing harm. The National Institutes of Health reports that using music in treatment is linked to positive results and is well-received by patients.
Reviews of music therapy for long-term illnesses indicate that both actively making music and simply listening to it benefit physical and mental health. These studies did not report any major negative effects or side effects, suggesting that music therapy is a safe option for managing symptoms of chronic diseases.
Overall, research supports music therapy as a safe and helpful treatment for many people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about music therapy for chronic diseases because it offers a non-invasive, holistic approach that focuses on both physical and emotional well-being. Unlike standard treatments that often involve medication, music therapy leverages the power of sound to promote relaxation, enhance respiratory health through harmonica exercises for COPD, and manage heart failure with music-based breathing techniques. This therapy also addresses psychosocial stress by incorporating relaxation, imagery, and gratitude exercises, potentially offering a more comprehensive healing experience without the side effects of drugs.
What evidence suggests that music therapy could be effective for chronic disease?
Research has shown that music therapy, which participants in this trial may receive, can positively affect both physical and mental health. For individuals with long-term illnesses, it can improve movement, manage pain, and support recovery. Studies also find that music therapy enhances quality of life by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, it helps regulate body functions like blood pressure and heart rate. Overall, these findings suggest that music therapy could be a useful tool for improving well-being in people with chronic diseases.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Samuel Rodgers-Melnick, MPH, MT-BC
Principal Investigator
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with chronic illnesses like heart failure or COPD. Participants should be adults who are currently hospitalized and have a history of these conditions. They must be able to give consent and participate in music therapy sessions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive two in-person music therapy sessions before discharge and two virtual sessions post-discharge, focusing on music-assisted relaxation, imagery, and disease-specific content.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with follow-up measures completed using REDCap surveys at 15 and 30 days post-discharge.
Extension
Participants in the control arm are offered a single virtual music therapy session after 30 days post-discharge.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Music Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Samuel Rodgers-Melnick
Lead Sponsor
Kulas Foundation
Collaborator