Observations on the use of music in rehabilitation of stroke patients.
A preliminary investigation was initiated to explore the use of music as a means of improving general mobility, social interaction, and emotional stability in patients who have suffered a stroke. A literature search had revealed very little information on the use of music in the rehabilitation of such patients. The investigators videotaped a series of sessions involving group movement-to-music, group music-making, and individual movement-to-music. An individual case study in music-making was carried out as well. All videotapes were reviewed and we observed that an increase in the range and ease of movement of the patients occurred during weight-shifting activities, when appropriate music with a tempo of 58 to 63 beats per minute was used. Our observations supported the findings of recent research concerning preferred tempi for certain activities and reinforcement of movement by appropriate tempi. Other factors in our study, such as size of group, placement, cueing, and the opportunity to touch, appeared to affect the responses obtained in group situations. As the result of our observations, we have concluded that music enhances the general mobility and social interaction of patients who have sustained a cerebrovascular accident and that it may also improve a patient's emotional stability.
D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D006744:Hospital Bed Capacity, 100 to 299; D006801:Humans; D009147:Music Therapy; D009864:Ontario; D012046:Rehabilitation / Q000523:psychology*