Metronomes and Parkinson’s Disease

An instrument of childhood torture – at least for those of us learning the piano – has found a use in treating Parkinson’s disease. I refer to the metronome, that little tick-tocking device the teacher set going, and expected you to keep pace (or rhythm) with. Interactive metronome therapy is an extension of the classical metronome; it’s coupled to a computer that responds to uneven responses to the task – falling behind the beat, or going too fast – with a signal like a cowbell. Parkinson patients are trained to keep time by performing repetitive tasks like clapping their hands or stomping their foot at regular intervals. The concentration required of the patient improves their learning processes and diminishes their Parkinsonian symptoms.

There are now more than 2,000 interactive metronome certified therapists in the USA . A typical course of treatment is 10-12 one-hour sessions. Maybe there are thousands of children prepared to donate their metronomes to help a patient recover. Spread the word!