Music Therapy for Chronic Lower Back Pain

Overseen By Kevin Gertz

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: University of Washington

Disqualifiers: Cognitive impairment, Psychiatric condition, Hearing disability, CNS damage, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 3

Duration: 1 session

103 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

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 is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators.

What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for chronic lower back pain?

Research shows that music therapy can significantly improve outcomes like pain relief, mood, and overall well-being in various medical conditions, suggesting it may also help with chronic lower back pain. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

What data supports the idea that Music Therapy for Chronic Lower Back Pain is an effective treatment?

The available research shows that music therapy can have positive effects on pain, mood, and overall well-being. A meta-analysis of 183 studies found that music therapy had a significant impact on reducing pain and improving mood compared to other music-related interventions. Although the studies focus on various medical conditions, the consistent positive outcomes suggest that music therapy could be beneficial for managing chronic lower back pain as well. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

What safety data exists for music therapy in treating chronic lower back pain?

The research indicates that music therapy and related interventions are generally safe and have been used in various clinical settings to manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms. Studies have shown positive outcomes in reducing pain and anxiety, with significant effects noted in meta-analyses. However, specific safety data for chronic lower back pain is not detailed in the provided research, suggesting a need for further studies focused on this condition. ^{1 4 6 7 8}

Is music therapy safe for humans?

Research shows that music therapy is generally safe for humans and can positively influence physiological functions like blood pressure, heart rate, and immune function. It has been used to help manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms in various medical settings without significant safety concerns. ^{1 4 6 7 8}

Is music therapy a promising treatment for chronic lower back pain?

Yes, music therapy is a promising treatment for chronic lower back pain. It has been shown to improve mood, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life in various settings, including for patients with chronic pain. Music therapy can help manage pain by distracting the mind, improving mood, and promoting relaxation. ^{9 10 11 12 13}

How does music therapy differ from other treatments for chronic lower back pain?

Music therapy is unique because it uses music to help manage pain and improve mood without medication. It can distract from pain, change mood, and promote relaxation, making it a non-drug option that can enhance overall well-being and quality of life. ^{9 10 11 12 13}

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial is testing if different types of music therapy can help people with chronic low back pain by changing their brain activity and reducing pain. The study will use live music, recorded music, and listening to text, and measure brain waves to understand how these treatments work.

Research Team

Mark Jensen, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator

University of Washington

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 18 who can read and understand English, experiencing moderate to severe chronic low back pain. They must not have significant hearing disabilities, central nervous system damage like epilepsy or traumatic head injury, cognitive impairments that affect study participation, or interfering psychiatric conditions.

Inclusion Criteria

I have been diagnosed with chronic low back pain.

My average pain level in the past week was 4 or higher on a scale of 0-10.

You can read, speak, and understand English.

Exclusion Criteria

I have a hearing disability that makes it hard for me to hear music.

You have a serious mental health condition that may affect your ability to take part in the study.

You have trouble thinking or remembering things that could make it hard for you to take part in the study.

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants are randomly assigned to one of three conditions: live music therapy, audio recorded music, or audio of text being read, with EEG assessments conducted before and during the session.

1 session

1 visit (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants complete a brief questionnaire about the experience and pain immediately after the session and 24 hours later to assess lasting effects.

24 hours

2 assessments (remote)

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Control group
• Music Medicine
• Music Medicine +
• Music Therapy

Trial Overview The study aims to explore how music-based treatments can help with chronic lower back pain. Participants will be divided into three groups: one receiving no musical intervention (control), another getting 'Music Medicine', and the third undergoing 'Music Therapy'.

Participant Groups

Group I: Music Therapy Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

The Music Therapy (MT) group will participate in 1 live session of music therapy with a board certified Music therapist while wearing an EEG cap. Afterwards, they will complete a brief questionnaire about the experience and pain. They will also complete a brief questionnaire 24 hours later about lasting effects and pain

Group II: Music Medicine Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

The Music Medicine (MM) group will participate in 1 audio session of music while wearing an EEG cap. Afterwards, they will complete a brief questionnaire about the experience and pain. They will also complete a brief questionnaire 24 hours later about lasting effects and pain

Group III: Control condition Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

the Control group will participate in 1 session of an audio of text being read to them while wearing an EEG cap. Afterwards, they will complete a brief questionnaire about the experience and pain. They will also complete a brief questionnaire 24 hours later about lasting effects and pain

Group IV: Control group without low back pain Active Control 1 Intervention

This group will participate in 1 session of an audio of the music therapy session while wearing an EEG cap. Afterwards, they will complete a brief questionnaire about the experience and pain. They will also complete a brief questionnaire 24 hours later about the lasting effects and pain

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Washington

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,858

Recruited

2,023,000+

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)

Collaborator

Trials

886

Recruited

677,000+

Findings from Research

A meta-analysis of 183 studies across 11 medical specialties found that music therapy interventions have significantly greater positive effects on outcomes like pain, well-being, mood, and nausea/vomiting compared to music medicine interventions.

The analysis particularly highlighted benefits for patients with cancer, those who are terminally ill, and patients with HIV, indicating that music therapy can be an effective complementary treatment in these populations.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of music and music therapy on medical patients: a meta-analysis of the research and implications for the future. Dileo, C.[2022]

The article provides a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of music therapy research, highlighting its effectiveness in medical and dental treatments.

It emphasizes the practical application of music therapy techniques in clinical settings, suggesting that music can be integrated into hospital programs to enhance patient care.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music research in medical/dental treatment: meta-analysis and clinical applications. Standley, JM.[2019]

The systematic review process, outlined in five steps, is essential for music therapists to evaluate existing literature and make informed treatment decisions, enhancing the credibility of their practice.

Conducting systematic reviews allows music therapists to effectively manage the growing body of research, ensuring that they can translate findings into evidence-based practices for their clients.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The systematic review as a research process in music therapy. Hanson-Abromeit, D., Sena Moore, K.[2023]

In a study involving 126 mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units, preferred music playlists were analyzed to understand their impact on managing anxiety through patient-directed music listening interventions.

The findings highlight the importance of music selection in therapeutic interventions, suggesting that involving a board-certified music therapist can enhance the effectiveness of music listening protocols in clinical settings.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Analysis of Preferred Music of Mechanically Ventilated Intensive Care Unit Patients Enrolled in a Randomized Controlled Trial. Heiderscheit, A., Johnson, K., Chlan, LL.[2023]

Receptive music therapy, applied over 16 weekly sessions to 10 patients, showed a trend towards reduced stress levels and increased personal satisfaction, indicating its potential effectiveness in improving emotional well-being.

Participants also reported healthier lifestyle changes, such as increased intake of fiber-rich foods and decreased consumption of cholesterol-rich foods, suggesting that music therapy can positively influence health behaviors.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Application of receptive music therapy in internal medicine and cardiology. Marconato, C., Munhoz, EC., Menim, MM., et al.[2019]

Music therapy and music medicine are distinct fields, with music therapy rooted in humanistic traditions and music medicine aiming to integrate music into medical practices, highlighting the need for collaboration between the two for better therapeutic outcomes.

Research indicates that music can positively affect various physiological responses, such as lowering blood pressure and heart rate, and can help alleviate symptoms like pain, anxiety, and depression, though more studies are needed to determine the best types of music for specific clinical situations.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[How does music affect the human body?]. Myskja, A., Lindbaek, M.[2008]

Incorporating music therapy as an adjunct intervention for adult surgical step-down patients led to a significant reduction in both pain (from an average of 6.07 to 3.45) and anxiety (from an average of 56.47 to 46.52) after therapy sessions, based on a study of 42 patients over 3 months.

The results indicate that music therapy is not only statistically significant but also clinically meaningful, effectively reducing pain from moderate to mild levels and anxiety from mild to none.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music Therapy for Surgical Patients: Approach for Managing Pain and Anxiety. Bojorquez, GR., Jackson, KE., Andrews, AK.[2021]

A review of 13 studies indicates that using percussion instruments, specifically membranophones like the djembe, positively impacts the physical, psychological, and social health of individuals over 18 in various care settings.

Active music therapy, which involves participants playing and repeating rhythmic patterns, was the most common intervention strategy, highlighting its effectiveness as a therapeutic approach.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Membranophone percussion instruments in music therapy with adult patients in the health context: a scope review. Tamiasso, RSS., Silva, VAD., Turrini, RNT.[2023]

Music therapy significantly contributed to the rehabilitation of a severely injured service member by improving various functional areas such as range of motion, strength, articulation, and social integration, as reported through clinical notes and patient feedback.

The integration of music therapy with traditional rehabilitation methods was highly valued by the patient and treatment team, enhancing motivation and participation, and helping to prevent social isolation by promoting community engagement through music.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy applied to complex blast injury in interdisciplinary care: a case report. Vaudreuil, R., Avila, L., Bradt, J., et al.[2020]

A single session of music therapy significantly improved mood (p < 0.001) and reduced pain (p < 0.05) in 40 participants with neurological impairments, with 74% reporting high satisfaction.

Qualitative feedback highlighted the benefits of music therapy, including emotional regulation, pain management, and enhanced social connectedness, suggesting it could be a valuable adjunct to standard rehabilitation practices.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of music therapy on mood, pain, and satisfaction in the neurologic inpatient setting. Mercier, LJ., Langelier, DM., Lee, CH., et al.[2023]

Music therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for various conditions, including chronic pain, migraines in children, and chronic tinnitus, supported by moderate to large effect sizes in multiple meta-analyses.

The growing body of evidence suggests that music therapy should be considered as a viable intervention in clinical settings, with future research needed to compare its effectiveness against standard treatments.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Outcome research in music therapy: a step on the long road to an evidence-based treatment. Nickel, AK., Hillecke, T., Argstatter, H., et al.[2011]

Music therapy is an effective non-drug approach for managing pain and symptoms in patients with long-term and life-threatening illnesses, helping to reduce pain perception through distraction and mood enhancement.

The article reviews various methods and techniques of music therapy, supported by case studies that illustrate its practical application in pain management.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy in pain and symptom management. Magill-Levreault, L.[2022]

Music therapy is an effective complementary treatment for cancer patients, helping to improve mood, reduce stress, pain, and anxiety, and enhance relaxation during their treatment process.

Integrating music therapy into supportive cancer care can significantly promote overall wellness and improve both physical and emotional well-being, contributing to a better quality of life for patients.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy in supportive cancer care. Stanczyk, MM.[2022]

References

1. Canada pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of music and music therapy on medical patients: a meta-analysis of the research and implications for the future. [2022]

2. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music research in medical/dental treatment: meta-analysis and clinical applications. [2019]

3. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The systematic review as a research process in music therapy. [2023]

4. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Analysis of Preferred Music of Mechanically Ventilated Intensive Care Unit Patients Enrolled in a Randomized Controlled Trial. [2023]

5. Brazil pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Application of receptive music therapy in internal medicine and cardiology. [2019]

6. Norway pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[How does music affect the human body?]. [2008]

7. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music Therapy for Surgical Patients: Approach for Managing Pain and Anxiety. [2021]

8. Brazil pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Membranophone percussion instruments in music therapy with adult patients in the health context: a scope review. [2023]

9. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy applied to complex blast injury in interdisciplinary care: a case report. [2020]

10. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of music therapy on mood, pain, and satisfaction in the neurologic inpatient setting. [2023]

11. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Outcome research in music therapy: a step on the long road to an evidence-based treatment. [2011]

12. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy in pain and symptom management. [2022]

13. Poland pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Music therapy in supportive cancer care. [2022]