Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders in woodwind, brass and percussion players: a review

Abstract

Performing Arts Medicine is a broad field that includes the study of medical conditions and injuries incurred by dancers, instrument musicians and vocalists. Musicians' playing-related health problems have focused more and more the interest of scientists, researchers, physicians, physiotherapists and, in generally, of health care professionals during the last decades. The most relevant Performing Arts Medicine's literature of approximately the past twenty years has been summarized. Special attention has been given to studies concerning playing-related musculoskeletal conditions of musicians. Overuse syndrome is the most reported diagnosis among instrumental musicians suffering from playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs), despite the fact that epidemiologic rates of PRMDs among woodwind, brass and percussion musicians seem to variate widely. An unambiguous definition of specific PRMDs seems to be more and more necessary, and would permit subsequent studies not to be excluded in the data collection of further systematic reviews. In conclusion, in order to change musicians at- risk behaviours a significant mind-changing is necessary and prevention should be considered as a living matter. Health care professional should also represent an important stream to make aware musicians about PRMDs and pain management.