Investigation of Musculoskeletal Problems in Musicians Playing in Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Postures

Authors : Neriman Temel Aksu, Alime Büyük, Nihan Yağışan, Levent Sarıkçıoğlu

Pages : 287-297

Doi:10.22312/sdusbed.1548294

View : 132 | Download : 223

Publication Date : 2025-12-22

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Repetitive movements while playing instruments, and the asymmetrical postures of the spine created by the instruments, cause musculoskeletal disorders. The type of the instrument is likely to be another factor affecting the frequency of musculoskeletal problems. This study aimed to investigate the effects of instruments on musicians’ musculoskeletal pain which have been played from an early age in symmetrical postures (clarinet, oboe, bassoon, trumpet, piano, percussion, etc.) and asymmetrical postures (violin, cello, flute, guitar, baglama [Turkish lute], double bass, etc.). This study included 50 musicians who played instrument for at least 10 years. Musicians were assessed about pain and posture. Pain problems was evatulated by special questionnaire called The Extended Version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and posture assesment were evaluated using observation-based posture assessment. The current study found that a significant differences were detected in postures between musicians playing in asymmetrical postures and musicians playing in symmetrical postures. (p<0.05). This study revealed that postures of musicians playing in asymmetrical postures were affected more than those of the musicians playing in symmetrical postures. Moreover, the present study showed that musicians playing in asymmetrical postures had more severe pain in the lower back, hands, upper back, and pelvis compared to those playing in symmetrical postures.
Keywords : kas iskelet sistemi bozuklukları, müzisyenler, ağrı, postür, işle ilgilili problemler

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