Guest guest Posted May 22, 2002 Report Share Posted May 22, 2002 Music and Rheumatism Muscular and skeletal symptoms are present in musicians at all levels. This is due to repetitive strain and hypermobility of the joints. These injuries can be serious in the fact that it could lead to loss of career and income, as well as the loss of a well-loved hobby. Studies have shown that people who have pain as a result of playing a musical instrument, symptoms exhibited tend to be the direct result of size, weight, position the instrument is played in, the time the instrument is played, posture, and technique. Hand pain is a common complaint among musicians. Other symptoms include pain, weakness, cramping, tightening, and loss of control. The management of these problems is often difficult. Many musicians only experience the discomforts while playing the instrument. Treatment can include splinting, the right amount of rest for the affected area, and correction of problems with posturing or technique. Also, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been known to be of some benefit. Sometimes occupational therapy is helpful to get the area accustomed to the movements that are necessary in order to play the desired instrument. Although playing musical instruments can cause such problems, it has been proven that music acts as a therapy for chronic pain and could possibly assist in the treatment of depression. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.