Music Soothes the Soul

Many studies have shown that classical music tends to soothe adult pain. But a recent study shows that children and teens who pick out their own music or audio book for listening after surgery, also have less pain.

In a study published in the journal Pediatric Surgery, researchers Santhanam and Sunitha Suresh recruited 60 children to participate in the study. After surgery, one group listened to their favorite music. Another group listened to a story they chose. And the third group listened to silence via noise canceling headphones.

After 30 minutes, the children who listened to music or a book had less pain on a point scale. Researchers say the music was equivalent to taking a Tylenol or Advil.

According to NPR, pain specialist Lynn Webster says that music can focus thoughts, reduce anxiety and even induce a feeling of euphoria.

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