Bad hip? Bad back? Instead of popping a pain pill, try spinning your favorite CD.

Nagging, gnawing pain can grind anyone down. But now there's scientific evidence that the right kind of music can pick you up, easing discomfort and lifting your spirits. What's the "right" kind? Anything you like -- relaxing sounds, classic rock, edgier beats, whatever sounds good to your inner spirit is good for your body, too.

It's been known for a while that music is a great way to decrease pain and calm fears after surgery and during cancer treatments. The question was, could it also help people suffering from the ongoing pain of arthritis, migraines, back problems, and other health issues? The answer is yes. A daily dose of music can definitely increase comfort and lift depression, boosting listeners' outlook.

Even better, music is a low-cost "medicine" with no side effects, unlike many pain relievers. So whatever it is you like to listen to -- Satchmo or Sade -- try turning it on if you're coping with pain problems. Treating yourself with more than one kind of medicine is good for the body as well as the soul.