Neurologic Music Therapy in Sensorimotor Rehabilitation

Since the 1990s, a strong body of research evidence has set the foundation for the use of rhythm and music as important tools in the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of sensorimotor function, particularly in the treatment of neurologic disorders. This chapter examines the connection between music and sensorimotor function, and the underlying neurological principles and mechanisms behind music perception, production, and cognition as they relate to motor function. The role of neurologic music therapy to facilitate functional movement is discussed with a variety of populations and movement disorders including: Parkinson’s disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, autism and healthy elderly. The chapter is divided into sections related to acquired movement disorders, degenerative diseases, and developmental disorders.