Listening to your favorite music can boost recovery following surgery

Researchers from the United Kingdom reviewed 72 studies that included almost 7 thousand patients, and found significant benefits of music.

In the United States, more than 51 million operations are performed each year. Each surgery has its own risks, and even when the operation is completed, the risk of post-surgical complications can be high. According to lead author Dr. Catherine Meads, of Brunel University in the United Kingdom, “Music is a non-invasive, safe, cheap intervention that should be available to everyone undergoing surgery”. Patients should be allowed to choose the type of music they would like to hear to maximize the benefit to their well-being.”

The researchers found that listening to music before, during or after surgery dramatically reduced patients’ anxiety and pain. It also decreased their need for pain medicines, and increased their satisfaction with their overall medical care. Interestingly, patients who listened to their favorite music before surgery had better outcomes than those who listened afterwards, although listening then was beneficial too.

Music can be immensely soothing, and this research shows it’s also good for your immune system. It’s good to remember this research for any time you are exposed to a stressful event in your life, not just surgery.

Reference