VibroAcoustic Therapy

Abstract

Describes the field of vibroacoustic therapy (VAT), a means of using the energy of musical sound waves applied directly to the body to produce relaxing physiological and psychological effects. In addition to its potential for music therapists, VAT may have possibilities for use by other professionals, such as physiotherapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, chemotherapists, and chiropractors. The development of VAT, since its inception in Norway, is examined, and an overview is presented of the use of VAT in the UK, Finland, Germany, Denmark, and Estonia. Types of cases for which therapeutic effects of using VAT can be expected include Rett syndrome, autism, stress-induced depression, and general stress discomfort.