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Alternative Medicine Blog

By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide to Alternative Medicine since 2000

Music Helps to Ease Arthritis Pain

Tuesday December 2, 2003
Scientists in Florida have found that just 20 minutes a day of music was enough for patients to report more than a 50% reduction in pain levels. Over the 14-day listening period, the amount of natural pain relief continued to increase.

The research was published in the Journal for Advanced Nursing. It was based on tests on 66 older people with chronic osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative disease in humans. Previous studies have shown that music can improve motivation, elevate mood, and increase feelings of control. It is thought to release endorphins, which reduce pain, decrease blood pressure, the heart rate, respiratory rate and oxygen consumption.

In addition to music, other coping strategies for pain include aromatherapy and meditation. Learn how to meditate at home.

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