Beyond Distraction: Music Therapy for Chronic Pain Management in People with Advanced Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychology
• Music Therapy

Background:

• Effective non-pharmacological pain management is crucial for advanced cancer patients.
• Music therapy shows promise but needs specific examination for chronic pain in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand how advanced cancer patients experience music therapy for pain management.
• To explore music therapy's impact on psychosocial factors influencing chronic pain.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews with 25 advanced cancer outpatients (Stage 3 & 4) with chronic pain.
• Participants completed 6 music therapy sessions.
• Theoretical thematic analysis of interview transcripts.

Main Results:

• Music therapy improved psychosocial well-being and pain management.
• Active music making enhanced self-efficacy, emotional regulation, and physical functioning.
• Participants reduced medication use and built therapeutic rapport.

Conclusions:

• Music therapy offers benefits beyond distraction, including stress reduction and emotional expression.
• Shared musical experiences foster therapeutic connection and support.
• Integrating music therapists into psycho-oncology care can optimize symptom management.