Music Therapy as an Adjunctive Treatment in Neurological Disorders: A Review Article

Abstract

Music therapy has emerged as a promising adjunctive treatment for neurological disorders, leveraging its neurophysiological and psychosocial benefits to address cognitive, motor, and emotional deficits. This review explores the mechanisms of action, historical context, and current applications of music therapy in conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury. By integrating behavioral and neuroscientific evidence, the article highlights how rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS), active music-making, and receptive listening can enhance neural plasticity, improve motor function, and alleviate psychological distress. Despite its efficacy, challenges such as variability in treatment protocols and lack of standardization persist. The review underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, longitudinal studies, and emerging technologies to refine music therapy interventions. Ethical considerations and case studies further illustrate its practical implementation and potential for personalized care. Future research should focus on mechanistic insights, scalability, and integrating music therapy into mainstream neurorehabilitation paradigms.