Content Analysis of Literature on Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (Ras) to Improve Gait in Individuals with Neurologic Disorders

Music therapy is the evidence-based and clinical use of music interventions to accomplish the specific goals of an individual within a therapeutic relationship with a certified music therapist that has completed an approved music therapy program. Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT), and evidence-based music therapy treatment model, centers specifically around music and rhythm’s physical effect on the brain and neuropathways. This is accomplished through specific NMT interventions which are applied in a consistent manner based on the goal of individuals (Hoemberg & Thaut, 2014). Of particular interest to the current study are gait training goals of individuals with neurologic conditions and the use of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) within a rehabilitative setting. The purpose of this analysis was to identify and discuss the use of RAS for individuals with neurologic conditions focusing on velocity, stride length, and cadence in gait training interventions. The intention of this content analysis is to reach a more comprehensive understanding of effective auditory production methods in interventions and populations that may benefit from RAS. Five of the six studies (83.33%) in this content analysis show in increase in the measured gait training functions. Live feedback as the primary auditory production method was used in two of the six (33.33%) studies found. Research using live feedback as the primary auditory production method within rehabilitation was limited, however, delivered positive results. Results may provide a starting point for further, more in-depth research on the therapeutic benefits of RAS gait training with neurologic disorders and the use of live feedback as the primary auditory production method within rehabilitative populations.