Orignally posted on June 18, 2021 by Tanya Jones
reposted Aug 2023
When you consider activities for someone who has had a stroke, playing the drums may not be the top of the list. However, this has proven to be a most beneficial activity to aid in recovery.
In drumming, each limb is moved independently to create a different noise. The drums provide immediate audio feedback to the player so they know immediately whether their intended movement was successful.
The NCBI 2014 study explored the potential of synchronised music playing during therapy, asking whether synchronised playing could improve fine motor rehabilitation and mood.
Music-supported therapy has been shown to be an effective tool for rehabilitation of motor deficits after stroke. A unique feature of music performance is that it is inherently social: music can be played together in synchrony.
To do this requires using areas of the brain that have been impacted or damaged by the stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). It is also beneficial to other brain conditions such as Parkinson’s. This works by stimulating and recreating neural pathways in the brain to increase co-ordination and motor function.
One study from 2020 led by Dr Alex Street, of Anglia Ruskin University, took place over two years at Addenbrooke’s hospital in Cambridge, and found that: Music therapy is understood to help stroke patients through mood regulation, improved concentration, and promoting changes in the brain to improve function, known as neural reorganisation. Physical benefits include better arm function and gait.
Lots of repetition, or ‘massed practice’, is central to neurorehabilitation. In addition to playing physical instruments (keyboard, drums and hand-held percussion), iPads featuring touchscreen instruments were used in the trial to help patients with hand rehabilitation, through improving finger dexterity, and cognitive training. Find out more here.
Barry B. Bittman, MD, neurologist and President of the Yamaha Music & Wellness Institute conducted a study in 2001 which showed that drumming circles boost natural T-cells in the body, boosting the immune system.
Conclusions: Drumming is a complex composite intervention with the potential to modulate specific neuroendocrine and neuroimmune parameters in a direction opposite to that expected with the with the classic stress response.
Here at The Rock Works, we have patient, friendly tutors who can deliver mobile sessions in your home by arrangement or at The Penyffordd and Penymynydd War Memorial Institute. These can be using electric kits, to combat noise, or using small acoustic instruments such as a Cajon and percussion equipment.
The many benefits of drumming include:
Increased levels of endorphins, encephalins and alpha waves in the brain Increased dexterity and motor function skills (co-ordination)
Increased problem solving skills
Increased confidence
Decreased stress response at a cellular level
Strengthened immune function
Improved cardio and aerobic function
Improved concentration
Improved circulation
Increased energy
Decreased blood pressure
Learn new skills
Improved listening skills
Boosted confidence
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftereffects of a stroke, TIA or Parkinson’s, why not give this a try and see how it can aid recovery.
Email us at Rockworksdrums@outlook.com for more information or to book a session. Group sessions or one to one can be booked with our friendly tutors.