| |
 |
| |
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow stops to an area of the brain, causing brain cell damage and dysfunction. The effects of a stroke can vary greatly from one individual to another because of differences in the severity and location of the brain cell damage.
Common neurological deficits after stroke include varying degrees of weakness or paralysis, loss of coordination and balance, sensory loss and difficulty speaking or swallowing. Other symptoms can include pain, loss of memory and confusion, irritability, anxiety and depression.
How Can Music Therapy Help Stroke Survivors?
Music Therapy has been medically and scientifically proven to be an effective tool in rehabilitation after a stroke. Particular areas of benefit include:
Movement and Muscle Control
A steady beat, rhytmic patterns, and musical timing can increase movement and improve muscle control. Activities may include:
-
Playing a drum to increase range of motion in the arm
-
Exercising to up-beat music
-
Timing music to match your natural walking rhythm
Speech and Communication
Music therapists use rhythm, melody, and singing to improve communication after a stroke. Activities may include:
-
Exercising muscles of the mouth
-
Setting a phrase to music, first singing the words, then transferring these words to speech
-
Rhyming, chanting, or rapping
Cognition
Music and musical structures are used to enhance all aspects of cognition including attention, memory, organization, and problem solving. Activities may include:
Mood, Motivation, and Pain Management
The emotional and aesthetic qualities of music are used to improve mood, to increase motivation, and to assist in pain management. Activities include:
-
Songwriting
-
Recording
-
Improvisation
-
Performance
-
Music listening
Playing an instrument uses many aspects of the brain and body, and can even be fun!
How Can Music Therapy be Incorporated at Home?
Tapes or CDs (personalized to your needs and preferences) can be made by your music therapist to assist in your further recovery. Some examples include:
Once at home you can easily incorporate music into your personal rehabilitation program. Try the following:
Listen. Listen to music by yourself or with your family and friends. Simple music listening can relieve stress and anxiety.
Sing Sing Sing! Singing can improve your mood and increase your resistance to infection. Sing, it doesn't matter what your voice sounds like!
Play It! Pick up your nearest musical instrument and play, or if you don't have one, create one.
Dance. Moving your body to music increases circulation, strengthens muscles, and makes you feel better.
For additional information contact the American Stroke Association, 1-888-4STROKE, www.strokeassociation.org.
For information on Stroke and Nutrition, Stroke and Adaptive Devices, Road to Recovery after Stroke, and Stroke and Communication, please click here.
To learn more about music therapy's benefits to stroke patients, we have provided links to articles. Please click on the following:
When Music Heals Body and Soul
Oliver Sacks, Parade Magazine, March 31, 2002
The Genetic Mystery of Music
Josie Glausiusz, Discover Magazine, August 2001
|
|
