VIBRO-ACOUSTIC TECHNOLOGY
The term vibro-acoustic
therapy was first applied by Olav Skille to describe the use of low
frequency sound and music applied as a tactile experience in the
treatment of various physical and psychological conditions
(1). The term has recently been defined as “A
form of receptive music therapy employing the physical properties of
sound and vibration, pulsed sinusoidal, low frequency sound between 30
Hz and 80 Hz is combined with relaxing music and is played through
speakers built into a bed or chair. Patients laying on a vibro-acoustic
unit experience a gentle, internal vibration in different parts of
their body, depending on the frequency used.”
(2).
Clinical Applications
Physical conditions that
responded well to this treatment included neck and shoulder pain,
lumbago, menstrual pain and chronic pack pain
(3). Psychological
conditions that improved from this treatment include reduction in
depressive symptoms, increase in motivation and reduction in acute
psychosomatic symptoms
(4).
How Does Vibro-acoustic
Therapy Work?
The specific mechanism by
which vibroacoustic therapy exerts its effects on physical and
psychological conditions has not been specified. However, recent
studies have shown that vibroacoustic therapy used on healthy people
can decrease blood pressure, pulse rate and muscle tension as well as
increased subjective feelings of health and well being
(5).
References
-
Wigram,
T. The psychological and physiological effects of low frequency
sound and music. Music Therapy Perspectives 13 (1995) 16-23.
-
Wigram,
T, Pedersen, IN, Bonde, LO. A Comprehensive Guide to Music Therapy;
Theory, Clinical Practice, Research and Training. (2002) Jessica
Kingsley Publishers, London.
-
Skille,
O. Vibroacoustic therapy. Music Therapy 8 (1989) 61-77.
-
Saluveer,
E and Tamms, S. Vibroacoustic therapy with neurotic clients at the
Talinn Pedagogical Institute. Paper given at the Second
International Symposium in Vibroacoustics. (1989) Steinkjer, Norway.
-
Ruutel,
E. The psychophysiologocal effects of music and vibroacoustic
stimulation. Nordic Journal of Music Therapy 11 (2002).
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