Music therapy for anxiety reduction in non-acute surgical fracture patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Anxiety is a common issue among non-acute surgical fracture patients. Non-pharmacological interventions are needed. This meta-analysis aims to synthesize evidence on the efficacy of music therapy for anxiety reduction in this population.

AIM

To evaluate the effect of music therapy on anxiety in non-acute surgical fracture patients.

METHODS

We systematically searched CNKI, PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, VIP, and MEDLINE databases for randomized controlled trials. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was anxiety scores measured by standardized scales.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized-controlled trials comprising 1257 patients (628 receiving music therapy, 629 in control groups) are included. Music therapy markedly reduces anxiety [the standardized mean difference (SMD) = -2.09, 95%confidence interval (CI): -2.63 to -1.55), P < 0.001], pain (SMD = -2.22, 95%CI: -3.39 to -1.05, P < 0.001) and depression (SMD = -2.05, 95%CI: -3.75 to -1.25, P < 0.001) vs standard care.

CONCLUSION

Music therapy significantly reduces anxiety in non-acute surgical fracture patients and should be considered as a complementary therapy.

Keywords: Music therapy; Fracture; Non-acute surgery; Anxiety; Meta-analysis

Core Tip: This meta-analysis offers robust evidence that music therapy - an affordable, non-invasive intervention - effectively eases anxiety in patients recovering from non-acute surgical fractures. Its findings back the inclusion of music therapy in standard clinical rehabilitation protocols. This integration can enhance patients’ psychological outcomes and may reduce the need for pharmacological treatments, highlighting a practical, low-cost way to improve post-surgery care.