Rakesh Kumar Jha

Department of Physiology, Nepalgunj Medical College, Chisapani, Banke, Nepal

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1411-7600

Vithal Prasad Myneedu

Department of Microbiology, Nepalgunj Medical College, Chisapani, Banke, Nepal

Gaurab Jung Shah

Department of Community Medicine, Nepalgunj Medical College, Chisapani, Banke, Nepal

Rajesh Shah

Department of Microbiology, B & C Medical College Teaching Hospital and Research Center, Birtamode, Jhapa, Nepal

DOI : https://doi.org/10.3126/mjen.v4i02.88430
Keywords : Music therapy, Cold Pressor Test, Cardiovascular Reactivity, Blood Pressure, Pulse Rate, Pain Tolerance

Abstract

Background

Music has been proposed as a low-cost non-pharmacological intervention for stress and pain reduction. This study evaluated the effects of music on blood pressure, pulse, and pain tolerance during the cold pressor test (CPT) in healthy adults.

Methods

A within-subject crossover study was conducted on 80 healthy medical students (20–30 years). Four randomized conditions were tested: rest, music, CPT, and CPT+music. Blood pressure, pulse, SpO₂, and pain tolerance were measured. Paired t-tests compared conditions.

Results

Music significantly reduced resting systolic BP and pulse, attenuated CPT-induced increases in BP and pulse, and markedly increased pain tolerance. SpO₂ remained stable. Effect sizes were large.

Conclusion

Music reduces cardiovascular reactivity and enhances pain tolerance during CPT. It may serve as a safe, low-cost adjunct in stress and pain management.