Musculoskeletal problems of musicians: a niche for the rheumatologist

This brief review of musculoskeletal injuries in musicians serves as an introduction to performing arts medicine and to the role rheumatologists can play in managing injured musicians. This niche is an area of practice that the rheumatologist may find very gratifying that, at the same time, provides a valuable service to the community. Common problems include overuse syndromes, nerve entrapment, thoracic outlet syndrome, osteoarthritis, motor dysfunction, fibromyalgia, and complications of hypermobility. Important points in the history and physical examination of the injured musician must include details of practice and performance patterns. Treatment involves many techniques used in nonmusicians but also often important is direct contact with the musicians' teachers.