Striking a chord: a multifaceted mixed methods exploration of the synergistic use of music and music therapy in chronic pain management

Chronic pain is an individual experience that can have many adverse effects on a person’s health and well-being, affecting their quality of life and relationships. This mixed methods research aims to explore the synergistic use of music and music therapy by people living with chronic pain. It investigates whether music therapy can be a supportive intervention through six papers unified by the framework of health musicing (Bonde, 2011).

Paper I investigates the impact of shaping and sharing the musical environment in the outpatient pain clinic waiting room through the provision of live and recorded music. The results gathered through a mixed methods survey, indicated that the presence of music leads to reduced levels of anxiety, stress, and pain, as well as shorter waiting times and a more caring experience. Those in the live music clinic reported greater reductions compared to those in the recorded music clinic.

Paper II examines the perception of music therapy among those living with chronic pain, and identifies potential facilitators and barriers to its inclusion in treatment. Survey data showed that the majority of participants perceive health benefits from music and believe that it can improve mood. Although 45% were previously unaware of music therapy, when introduced to the concept most participants expressed interest in attending.

Paper III is a mixed methods pilot study examining music therapy provided as an individual intervention for people managing chronic pain. The quantitative results showed that participation in music therapy helped to reduce pain, while qualitatively participants reported gaining emotional support, social engagement, coping strategies, and resources.

Paper IV is a mixed methods intervention study of an online music therapy group focused on community and resources. Quantitative data demonstrated improvements in pain-related self-efficacy, pain levels, mood, and stress following the sessions. Qualitative data highlighted both the challenges and advantages of the online therapy environment, emphasizing the role of music as a coping tool.

Paper V synthesized the perspectives of a special interest group on the professional practice of music therapy in chronic pain, and outlined priority questions for future research. This article set an agenda for high-quality research and practice in music therapy for treating and caring for individuals living with chronic pain.

Lastly, Paper VI provides the perspective of a person living with chronic pain, detailing their experiences of musicing for health. It includes reflections from their music therapist and highlights the importance of incorporating service user perspectives to inform knowledge and practice.

Overall, this thesis suggests that music therapy holds promise as a supportive intervention for people living with chronic pain. However, it emphasizes the need for further research to advance the understanding and application of music therapy in this context.