From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Music therapy has been a valuable tool in the rehabilitation of ischemic stroke patients, improving motor function, speech recovery, and mood regulation, as evidenced by studies showing its benefits in cognitive outcomes and reduction of anxiety and depression 1. The connection between music and ischemic stroke is multifaceted, with music therapy being used as a rehabilitation tool since the mid-20th century. Some key points to consider include:
- Professional musicians who suffer ischemic strokes often show better recovery rates for language and motor skills compared to non-musicians, suggesting that musical training creates neurological resilience through enhanced brain plasticity.
- Historical figures like composer Maurice Ravel experienced strokes that dramatically altered their musical abilities; Ravel developed aphasia after his stroke in 1932, rendering him unable to compose despite still being able to hear music in his mind.
- The phenomenon of melodic intonation therapy, developed in the 1970s, uses musical elements to help stroke patients with aphasia regain speech by engaging undamaged right-hemisphere pathways.
- Listening to preferred music during stroke recovery has been shown to improve cognitive outcomes and reduce anxiety and depression, with this knowledge dating back to early 20th century observations but only scientifically validated in recent decades 2, 3. It is essential to note that while music therapy is a valuable tool, it should be used in conjunction with other evidence-based treatments for ischemic stroke, such as systemic thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, as recommended by recent studies 1, 4, 5.
Key Takeaways
- Music therapy can improve motor function, speech recovery, and mood regulation in ischemic stroke patients.
- Musical training may create neurological resilience through enhanced brain plasticity.
- Melodic intonation therapy can help stroke patients with aphasia regain speech.
- Listening to preferred music can improve cognitive outcomes and reduce anxiety and depression during stroke recovery.
Recommendations for Clinical Practice
- Consider music therapy as a valuable tool in the rehabilitation of ischemic stroke patients.
- Use music therapy in conjunction with other evidence-based treatments for ischemic stroke.
- Encourage patients to listen to preferred music during stroke recovery to improve cognitive outcomes and reduce anxiety and depression.