A neuroscientific perspective on pain-reducing effects of music: Implications for music therapy and mental well-being

Abstract

The pain-reducing effects of music are among the best-established phenomena in music medicine and are frequently harnessed in music therapy. Converging evidence from meta-analyses and experimental studies demonstrates that music modulates pain perception and processing in both acute and chronic conditions. We examine the underlying neural mechanisms, highlighting the overlap between pain-processing and reward networks, and the roles of dopamine and endogenous opioids. Furthermore, we discuss how sensorimotor synchronization—such as tapping, breathing, or moving in synchrony with music—not only amplifies these pain-reducing effects but also offers promising therapeutic potential for mental health conditions by mitigating intrusive negative thoughts and emotions. Finally, the article outlines practical applications in both clinical and everyday settings, aiming to optimize the integration of music-based interventions into patient care.