From the rhythm of the heartbeat and breathing, to the cadence in walking, the body and the brain work in a rhythmic structure. Music Therapy techniques are very successful interventions for persons with physical disabilities, neurological disorders, and brain injury in many ways.

Music is reinforcing and can be used to motivate for movement exercise that increases range of motion, gross and fine motor skills development, and improvement in muscle and joint functioning. A Music Therapy technique called Rhythmic Auditory Stimulus (R.A.S) is shown to improve control of ambulation, improve gait training, increase cadence, and facilitate temporal and quantitative muscular control. Music can aid in relaxation and decrease the anxiety and pain that often accompanies disabilities.

Singing can be used to increase cardiopulmonary and respiratory function,as well as improving oral-motor skills. Many people that may not be able to speak can often sing a song with amazing accuracy. Singing is very effective in the development and remediation of speech. Songs can also aid in promoting more effective activities of day to day living, therefore increasing independence.

Music also provides a means for social interaction, group experience, and ways to explore emotions in a nonverbal and non-threatening way. Since music is instantly gratifying, it provides a sense of personal achievement, increases self-esteem, and self-worth.

For more information on Music Therapy visit The America Music Therapy Association