Musculoskeletal complaints in musicians: Epidemiology, Phenomenology, and Prevention

Muscoskeletal complaints, such as pain, stiffness and tingling, are common among musicians. Approximately 67% of music students experience these symptoms, which can have a negative impact on the quality of their music and their lives. The risk factors associated with these symptoms in musicians remains unknown. Posture may be a risk factor, but stress and anxiety may also play a role. This study specifically examined the effect of posture according to the Samama method of Mensendieck exercise therapy. There are indications that this posture leads to more favourable muscle activity patterns while making music, which could help prevent symptoms. A multi-centre study involving a randomly selected group of test subjects examined the effect of a programme that combined posture with psychosocial education. The goal was to determine whether students who participated in this programme experienced fewer symptoms and limitations compared to a control group who followed a 10,000 step walking programme. The effect was similar for both groups in that symptoms and limitations appeared to decrease. The music students, however, preferred the biopsychosocial programme. The involvement of music academies in student health policies is extremely important for improving the health of professional musicians.