A Live-Music Therapy Protocol for Pain Management in Advanced Cancer: The MSPD Pilot Study

Abstract

Background

Patients with advanced cancer often experience disease- and treatment-related pain. Previous studies have shown that music therapy can help manage pain. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of a live-music therapy protocol, delivered by a trained music therapist, to induce relaxation in patients, allowing for real-time patient management and tailored sessions.

Methods

This prospective, exploratory study included patients with advanced cancer with a pain score ≥3/10 before the intervention (NCT05315427). A trained music therapist performed a single music intervention to induce a state of deep relaxation. We evaluated the effect of music therapy on pain using a numerical rating scale before and after intervention, taking into account analgesic intake before the session. Secondary objectives included symptoms assessment, patient satisfaction, and interest in future sessions.

Results

Forty patients were included. Pain significantly decreased from 4.9 (95% CI: 4.3–5.4) to 3.5 (95% CI: 2.9–4.2) (P < 0.0001) following music intervention, regardless of analgesic intake. We observed a significant reduction in fatigue (6.2 vs. 4.3) and anxiety (2.7 vs. 1.0) (P < 0.0001), and an improvement in well-being (5.2 vs. 3.3) (P < 0.0001). The mean satisfaction score was 8.9 (95% CI: 8.4- 9.3), and 95% of patients were willing to have a second session.

Conclusions

A single session of music-induced relaxation led to a short-term reduction of pain in patients with advanced cancer while improving their symptoms. Future research should confirm the efficacy of our intervention, assess its long-term effects, and explore the benefits of a multisession program.