Pilot Study to Evaluate Music Therapy in Complex Specialist Neurorehabilitation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether adding music therapy to specialist rehabilitation programs improves functional recovery for patients with complex neurological injuries, including brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerve damage. This randomized, blinded trial compares functional outcomes between patients receiving music therapy plus usual care and those receiving control therapy plus usual care. The goal is to assess if music therapy enhances recovery by supporting emotional, social, cognitive, and physical rehabilitation. Participants are assigned to either music therapy or control therapy groups, each receiving 15 hours of therapy over about 10 weeks, alongside usual neurorehabilitation. Music therapy involves individual and group sessions using the Nordoff Robbins approach, focusing on active music-making and improvisation to meet patient needs. Control therapy sessions match music therapy in duration and frequency but include activities like gaming, education, mindfulness, discussions, and stretching without specialized equipment. Participants undergo baseline and post-intervention assessments measuring functional independence, dependency, daily living activities, quality of life, psychological distress, social interaction, well-being, communication, pain, and mood. Assessments occur at baseline, during the 10-week intervention, and at its end. After intervention completion, all participants can access music therapy until discharge. Additional qualitative data will be gathered through interviews and observations during the rehabilitation stay.

MUSic Therapy In Complex Specialist Neurorehabilitation