An interdisciplinary integration of physiotherapy, music therapy, and interaction as a tool for neurological rehabilitation

What did you study?

I investigated a novel neurological rehabilitation approach that I have developed, Rhythmic Multisensory Activation (RMA), and its applicability in multidisciplinary neurological rehabilitation. The method integrates principles and practices from physiotherapy, music therapy, and therapeutic interaction, while simultaneously employing multisensory cueing to facilitate movement activation.

The approach adopts a holistic, person-centered perspective, aiming to enhance the individual’s understanding of their own bodily functioning, as well as to strengthen well-being, self-esteem, and sense of agency. My three case studies report and analyze rehabilitation interventions implemented using the RMA method, applying both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to examine its role in supporting biopsychosocial well-being.

What were the main findings of your study?

This doctoral dissertation introduces a patient-centered, cost-effective, and practically applicable model that addresses the complex rehabilitation needs associated with neurological disorders by simultaneously targeting multiple domains of functioning. The case studies provide preliminary evidence of the potential of rhythmic, multisensory, and person-centered approaches in neurological rehabilitation.

Applicability of the Findings and Contribution to Knowledge

In the future, healthcare systems may face increasing challenges in providing multiple separate therapies for individuals with complex rehabilitation needs.

This doctoral dissertation deepens the understanding of the multifaceted nature of neurological rehabilitation needs and introduces a novel rehabilitation approach that addresses the individual holistically. I argue that music, rhythm, and speech are inherently embedded in human social interaction and movement. Rehabilitation—whether physiotherapy or music therapy—is most effective when the individual is encountered as a whole person: as a bodily, emotional, and social being.

By enhancing motivation and reducing fear-related tension through the use of music, rhythm, and therapeutic equipment, it is possible to support more effective, person-centered neurological rehabilitation in the future.

Public Defense of the Doctoral Dissertation

MA Jaana Ruotsalainen’s doctoral dissertation in music therapy, “Rhythmic Multisensory Activation in Multidisciplinary Neurological Rehabilitation,” will be examined on Thursday, 18 June 2026, at 12:00 in lecture hall H320 of the Historica building at the University of Jyväskylä. The opponent will be Edward Roth (University of Houston), and the custos will be University Lecturer Emily Clements (University of Jyväskylä). The language of the defense will be English.