Why This Matters
Recovering from surgery can be physically painful, emotionally taxing, and mentally draining. While medications like opioids are often used to manage pain, they come with potential side effects and risks. But what if there was a low-cost, non-invasive way to ease recovery? According to new research presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2024, listening to music after surgery can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
The Science Behind Music and Healing
A team from California Northstate University College of Medicine conducted a deep review of 3,700+ studies and identified 35 high-quality papers that explored the effects of music on post-operative recovery. Their meta-analysis found consistent, positive impacts of music on several key health indicators:
1. Reduces Pain Without Additional Medication
Patients who listened to music after surgery experienced a statistically significant reduction in pain.
- Numeric Rating Scale: 19% pain reduction
- Visual Analogue Scale: 7% reduction
While music doesn’t numb the pain in the way drugs do, it helps change how pain is perceived, which can be just as impactful.
2. Calms Anxiety and Emotional Distress
Anxiety is common after surgery. Across the reviewed studies, patients reported a 3% decrease in anxiety levels, as measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. That’s enough to promote calmer breathing, better rest, and smoother healing.
“Music can help ease the transition from the waking-up stage to normalcy,” says Dr. Eldo Frezza, senior study author.
3. Cuts Down on Opioid Use
One of the most compelling findings: music-listening patients required less than half the amount of morphine as non-listeners during the first day post-op.
- Music group:758 mg of morphine
- Non-music group:654 mg
This not only supports recovery but also reduces the risk of opioid-related side effects and dependence.
4. Lowers Heart Rate for Safer Recovery
Music had a calming effect on patients’ heart rate, reducing it by about 4.5 beats per minute. This is important because:
- A lower heart rate improves oxygen circulation to healing tissues.
- It reduces the risk of tachycardia and serious complications like atrial fibrillation.
Why Music Works So Well
Music is a passive, low-effort intervention—you don’t need to move, concentrate deeply, or follow a routine. Just press play.
“Unlike meditation or exercise, music requires very little from the patient,” explains Shehzaib Raees, co-author and medical student. “It helps people disassociate from their pain and feel calmer.”
There’s also evidence that listening to music reduces cortisol—the body’s main stress hormone—which further supports healing.
When to Use Music for Best Results
📌 Pre-Surgery
Helps lower pre-op anxiety and prepare the body for a smoother procedure.
📌 Post-Surgery
Listening to music in recovery rooms promotes rest, stabilizes vitals, and distracts from discomfort.
📌 At Home During Recovery
Consistent music exposure at home can improve emotional well-being and reduce the sense of isolation or post-op blues.
What Kind of Music Is Best?
Good news: There’s no single “best” genre. Patients are encouraged to listen to whatever feels comforting or familiar—whether that’s classical, jazz, ambient sounds, or pop.
“We’re not trying to say that one type of music is better than another,” Dr. Frezza says. “Music can help people in different ways.”
What’s Next for Music Therapy in Surgery?
Researchers plan to launch pilot programs testing music in:
- Operating rooms
- Post-op recovery areas
- Intensive care units (ICUs)
The goal is to explore how structured, personalized music experiences can become part of standard surgical care
Conclusion: Healing with Harmony
Music is more than a feel-good distraction—it’s a scientifically backed tool for healing. Whether you’re facing surgery or helping a loved one through recovery, curating a comforting playlist might just be one of the most powerful things you can do.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Studies show that patients report significantly less perceived pain when listening to music after surgery.
The music that makes you feel calm and safe—your personal preferences matter more than genre.
Most hospitals allow headphones during recovery, especially when used at low volume.
In many cases, yes. Patients in studies needed less morphine after surgery when music was part of their recovery routine.
Looking to try music as part of your post-op care plan? Download our Free Healing Playlist Guide or subscribe to our newsletter for more holistic recovery tips.
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