Michael Pickering Supervisor: Emma Chippendale
Abstract
Much has been written about the musculoskeletal effects of the work environment. Many work hours are lost each year to musculoskeletal Edal injuries. Increasingly, industry and employers are obliged to consider ergonomics and work hours and the effects these may have on their employees. Musicians too are prone to work related injuries. Performing arts medicine is a relatively new but ever growing field. This study shall attempt to add to the few existing studies, particularly in the United Kingdom, information on the musculoskeletal effects of playing a musical instrument.
100 questionnaires were distributed amongst professional musicians and music students in the London (UK) area. Data was sought as to instrument type and any injuries. Subjects were asked only about symptoms experienced as a result of their playing. Results were subjected to statistical analysis to test the null hypothesis that there is no correlation between instruments and injuries reported by musicians in the London area.
The results have shown some significant associations between instrument type and injuries experienced. Enabling the null hypothesis to be rejected.