According to a new study published in The Journal Of Pain, listening to music may help reduce pain, especially in people with anxiety. The researchers examined the responses of 143 people who received a painful shock to their fingertip while listening to music. The results found that as participants became more involved in following the melodies and identifying unusual tones their pain lessened. Music was particularly effective in reducing pain in the people who were the most anxious about receiving the shock. David H. Bradshaw, PhD, from the University of Utah. said engaging in activities like listening to music may reduce pain in high-anxiety persons who can easily become absorbed in activities.