Study Summary

Ninety patients undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgery were randomized to receive rhythmic breathing (n=30), music therapy (n=30), or standard care (n=30). The primary outcomes of interest were postoperative pain intensity and anxiety levels. Secondary outcomes included heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. Outcomes were assessed at 12 and 24 hours postsurgery. Overall, the results of the study revealed that both rhythmic breathing and music therapy significantly reduced pain, anxiety, pulse rate, and blood pressure compared with the control group (p<0.05). Rhythmic breathing demonstrated greater effectiveness in reducing pain, whereas music therapy produced greater reductions in anxiety levels. These findings suggest that nonpharmacological interventions can enhance early postoperative recovery following orthopedic surgery.