MUSIC THERAPY
Music is a great tool for people suffering from jaw related pain or other chronic pains. Music as medicine can promote relaxation and has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain! Below you will find links to the research behind music therapy, advice on how you can create your own playlists to use music effectively, and examples of therapeutic playlists provided by Dr. Alicia Howard, a Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education.
1. THE RESEARCH
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Music Medicine: An Alternative Approach for Managing Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorder.
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Music for pain and anxiety in children undergoing medical procedures.
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Emotional foundations of music as a non-pharmacological pain management tool in modern medicine.
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The effects of different types of music on mood, tension, and mental clarity.
2. A GUIDE ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN PLAYLIST
A music playlist can consist of music from different styles, genres, and tempos. The music playlist should reflect how you are feeling in that moment. Your playlist can fluctuate depending on your mood. You may find variations in your playlist compared to others, this is why we call it a ‘Personalized Music Playlist’.
Step 1: Think of your favourite 5-10 songs.
Step 2: Take your preferred 5-10 songs and create an audible playlist using the platforms YouTube, iTunes, or Spotify (as examples).
3. WHEN TO LISTEN TO YOUR PLAYLIST
Find a time during the day with no distractions where you can listen to your playlist and enjoy!
4. EXAMPLES OF PLAYLISTS
The Jaw & Facial Pain Centre is a subdivision of The Centre for Fitness, Health and Performance. This multidisciplinary clinic is home to the rest of our health care team. Follow the link to learn more www.cffhp.com or call now at (416) 972-6279.