Knowledge of brain plasticity and numerous neuroimaging studies in recent years have led to progress in understanding how the brain processes musical stimuli. This has fostered interest in analyzing and studying their application in the noninvasive treatment of certain dysfunctions or diseases, with the aim of contributing to an improved quality of life. Therefore, a study aimed to explain the foundations and applications of musical techniques used for cognitive neurorehabilitation.
Starting with an initial summary of the brain's processing of musical stimuli, the foundations of various techniques, as defined by neurological music therapy, are presented, which are effectively used in cognitive neurorehabilitation. Sounds, which constitute the raw material of music, maintain a temporality and sequencing that are useful for aiding the formation of temporal patterns of cognitive functions and form an assembly or framework that facilitates the learning of sequential information processes, such as memory.
Depending on the functions they stimulate, neurological music therapy techniques are classified into four categories: Executive Function Training (executive functions), Auditory Attention and Perception Training (selective, sustained, alternating and divided attention), Memory Training (memory) and Music Psychotherapy and Counseling (emotional exploration and expression).
According to the authors, the techniques used in neurological music therapy, which have been applied in recent years in cognitive neurorehabilitation, are noninvasive and provide encouraging results; with further research, they should be considered for implementation alongside conventional cognitive stimulation and neurorehabilitation therapies.
Jauset-Berrocal JA and Soria-Urios G.
[Rev Neurol 2018; 67:303-10]
Source Link: Journal of Neurology_ Applications of neurological music therapy in cognitive neurorehabilitation.