New research from McGill University published in the journal Pain suggests that the tempo—or speed—of music plays a crucial role in how well it helps reduce pain.
In this study, researchers explored whether music that matches a person’s natural rhythm—called their spontaneous production rate (SPR)—could provide better pain relief. SPR is the pace at which people naturally hum or tap out a tune, almost like a personal internal metronome.
Sixty participants first had their SPR measured by tapping out “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” at a comfortable pace. Later, they were exposed to mild heat pain while listening to music specially adjusted to three tempos: their exact SPR, 15% faster, or 15% slower. A silent condition was also tested.
The results? Music alone reduced pain compared to silence, confirming what many of us know instinctively—music helps us cope. But the biggest surprise was that music adjusted exactly to each person’s SPR provided the most pain relief. Faster or slower versions just weren’t as effective.
Why does this happen? We think it may be because music at our natural tempo syncs better with our body’s internal rhythms, helping us relax and shift focus away from pain.
What does this mean for you? The next time you’re using music to manage discomfort—whether it’s during a workout, a medical procedure, or just a headache—try finding songs that feel “just right” in speed. It might be your body’s way of telling you it’s syncing up for maximum relief.
This research paves the way for more personalized music therapy—helping us move from simply picking our favorite songs to using science-backed soundtracks tuned just for us.
Here is a part of the chapter on music from my book, The End of Migraines, 150 Ways to Stop Your Pain, providing additional scientific evidence that music can relieve pain.
‘Music relieves experimental pain in healthy volunteers who are paid to endure pain and music. In one study, 18 volunteers were subjected to pleasant music, unpleasant music, and a silent period. Heat-induced pain was reduced only by pleasant music.
Children with migraines exposed to music improved as much as those given butterbur extract. Both groups improved more than a control group.
Music relieved the pain of osteoarthritis in the elderly. Those who listened to music for 20 minutes a day felt better than those who sat quietly for 20 minutes.
A study of 20 volunteers showed that both happy and sad melodies reduced heat pain. Listening to a lecture did not.
Another group of researchers examined the potential pain-relieving properties of three aspects of music: arousal, valence, and depth. Arousing music is characterized as “intense, forceful, abrasive, or thrilling”. Valence refers to “fun, happy, lively, enthusiastic, and joyful”. Depth means “intelligent, sophisticated, inspiring, complex, poetic, deep, emotional, and thoughtful.” The degree of arousal and the depth of music had a greater effect on pain than valence. The authors concluded, “With the advent of online music streaming services, this research opens new possibilities for music-based pain interventions.”
The new study suggests that tempo is another factor to consider when choosing soothing music.
