The Healing Power of Music: How It Alleviates Pain After Surgery or Illness

Nurse Rod Salaysay plays guitar for patient Richard Hoang in the recovery unit of UC San Diego Health in San Diego, California, on September 30, 2025.

The familiar sounds of music are increasingly becoming a part of the healthcare landscape.Nurse Rod salaysay exemplifies this trend, utilizing his guitar and ukulele alongside traditional medical tools too aid patients recovering at UC San Diego Health.

A Soothing Remedy in the Recovery Room

Salaysay provides musical support to patients post-surgery, offering both requested songs and spontaneous performances, ranging from traditional folk tunes to classical pieces like Minuet in G Major. Patients frequently respond positively, exhibiting smiles, nods, and even measurable changes in vital signs such as reduced heart rate and blood pressure. some patients have even requested lower doses of pain medication following these musical interventions.

“hospitals can often be filled with worry, discomfort, and anxiety,” Salaysay explained. “But music can help disrupt that cycle.”

The Science Behind Music and Pain

For decades, the intuitive connection between music and well-being has been recognized. Though, the scientific understanding of how music impacts pain – a phenomenon known as music-induced analgesia – is onyl recently gaining traction. Recent studies published in journals like Pain and Scientific Reports suggest that music can both lessen the perception of pain and improve a person’s ability to cope with it.

The key appears to be personalized selection and focused listening, rather than simply having music playing in the background.

How Does Music Affect the Brain?

According to Adam Hanley, a Psychologist at Florida State University, “Pain is a deeply complex experience, shaped not only by physical sensation but also by an individual’s thoughts and emotional response.” consequently, two individuals with similar conditions might experience remarkably different levels of pain.

Researchers believe music diverts attention, but its effects go deeper. Caroline Palmer, a Psychologist at McGill University, notes that music isn’t just a distraction; it’s actively changing the way the brain processes pain. Neuroimaging studies reveal that engaging with music activates nearly all areas of the brain, altering pain perception and reducing feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Pain Type Brain Response Music’s Impact
Acute Pain Signals sent from pain receptors to the brain. Distraction, reduced sensation.
Chronic Pain Long-term brain changes, heightened sensitivity. altered pain perception, emotional regulation.

Genre and Personal Preference

A study conducted at Erasmus University rotterdam involving 548 participants indicated that any genre of music can be beneficial in increasing pain tolerance. However, the study, published in Scientific Reports, surprisingly revealed that the most effective music was simply the genre that individuals preferred.

Dr. Emy van der Valk Bouman, a co-author of the study, explained that familiar songs may evoke stronger memories and emotions, contributing to their analgesic effects. The act of selecting music also empowers patients, providing a sense of control.

Did you Know? A 2023 study by the american Music Therapy Association found that 86% of patients reported reduced pain levels after engaging in music therapy sessions.

Active Listening is Crucial

Simply having music playing isn’t enough. Researchers emphasize the importance of active,focused listening. Preliminary studies suggest that daily attentive listening can help reduce chronic pain. Music doesn’t merely mask pain; it triggers positive emotional responses and engages multiple brain regions, offering a holistic approach to pain management.

What kind of music helps you relax and manage stress?

Are there sufficient resources available to integrate music therapy into mainstream healthcare settings?