Music decreases aortic stiffness and wave reflections

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Music Therapy

Background:

• Music is linked to cardiovascular health and used in managing cardiovascular disease.
• Aortic stiffness and wave reflections are key indicators of cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate impact of classical and rock music on arterial stiffness and wave reflections in healthy individuals.

Main Methods:

• Twenty healthy participants (22.5±2.5 years) were exposed to 30-minute music compilations (classical, rock) or a sham procedure on separate occasions.
• Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx) were measured to assess arterial stiffness and wave reflections.

Main Results:

• Both classical and rock music significantly decreased PWV immediately post-listening (p<0.01).
• AIx showed a sustained decrease with both music types (nadir 6.0% classical, 5.8% rock, p<0.01).
• Music preference influenced outcomes: classical music more effectively reduced PWV and AIx in classical music fans, while rock music showed a stronger effect on AIx in rock fans.

Conclusions:

• Both classical and rock music reduce aortic stiffness and wave reflections.
• The reduction in aortic stiffness is transient, lasting only during music exposure.
• Classical music demonstrates a sustained positive effect on wave reflections, suggesting potential lifestyle implications for arterial function.