The knowledge of brain plasticity and the numerous neuroimaging studies in recent years have allowed progress in the understanding of the brain process of musical stimuli, which has led to interest in analyzing and studying its application in the non-invasive treatment of certain dysfunctions or diseases in order to contribute to an improvement in the quality of life. For this reason, a study has sought to expose the foundations and applications of the musical techniques used for cognitive neurorehabilitation.

Starting from an initial summary of the brain process of musical stimuli, the foundations of various techniques are presented, as defined by neurological music therapy, which are used effectively in cognitive neurorehabilitation. Sounds, which constitute the raw material of music, maintain a temporality and sequencing that are useful to help 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.

Based 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 by neurological music therapy, which in recent years have been applied in cognitive neurorehabilitation, are non-invasive and provide hopeful 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] Read full article. Link Source: Journal of Neurology_ Applications of neurological music therapy in cognitive neurorehabilitation.