The Effect of Music-Based Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation on Balance and Functional Outcomes after Stroke

Abstract

Purpose: the purpose of this paper was to evaluate the effects of music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation on balance and motor function after stroke and whether there are differences depending on the affected hemisphere, lesion site and age. Materials and Methods: This study was an observational and longitudinal study. Adult stroke survivors (n = 28), starting no later than 3 weeks after a stroke, conducted 90 min sessions of music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation 3 days a week, in addition to 60 min a day of conventional physiotherapy. Balance ability was evaluated using the Mini Best Test and the Tinetti Test; motor function was evaluated using the Motor Assessment Scale. Results: All of the participants significantly improved their balance ability and motor function variables upon comparing scores at discharge and admission. Intragroup differences were observed upon comparing subgroups of patients by lesion site and by the degree of motor impairment. Age, stroke type and affected hemisphere seemed not to be directly related to the amount of improvement. Conclusions: This study suggests that the effects of music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) on balance ability and motor function varies depending on the scale or test used for evaluation and on the variables that the tests measure. Patients with hemiparesis seemed to improve more than those with hemiplegia.

Is rhythmic auditory stimulation the most effective therapy for functional ambulation after stroke? A systematic review

“…Although there are studies that examine the neuroplasticity and the effect of music and rhythm on brain areas [37][38][39][40][41][42], evidence that compares the degree of effect of a rhythmic auditory stimulation intervention depending on the affected area is scarce [43]. We suggest that more research about the relationship between the effect of a rhythmic auditory stimulation intervention and the lesion area is necessary to improve the generalisability of the results to stroke population.…”

Commentary: Effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation on motor function and balance ability in stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical randomized controlled studies

“…Rhythmic auditory stimulation is a specific technique that promotes motor function rehabilitation by providing steady rhythmic music or monophonic beat stimulation during exercise. Rhythmic auditory stimulation promotes the rehabilitation of movements that are essentially close to biorhythmic movements (Gonzalez-Hoelling et al, 2022). The most important aspect of in these rhythmic movements is rhythmically guided gait speed and trunk control.…”