Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026
A Novel Application of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging
Published on: September 17, 2013
The prevalence and incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by flautists
1School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia, International Centre for Allied Health Evidence, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia, jessica.stanhope@adelaide.edu.au.
Background:
Musculoskeletal symptoms are reportedly common among musicians. Flautists may be at high risk of symptoms, due to their asymmetrical playing posture.
Aims:
To determine the prevalence and incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms among flautists.
Methods:
A systematic search of four databases, with reference and citation lists of included studies, screened for additional studies. Included studies were assigned to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine levels of evidence and critical appraisal was performed using a previously published tool. Data extracted included the country, sample size, data collection methods, response rates, sample demographics and data pertaining to the prevalence or incidence of musculoskeletal symptoms among flautists.
Results:
Seven studies (evidence levels 1 and 3) were included. These were at moderate to high risk of bias. There was wide variation in the populations and the types of musculoskeletal symptoms investigated. Lifetime prevalence of any musculoskeletal symptoms of any duration varied from 15 to 95% depending on the populations and symptoms investigated. In schoolchildren, this was as high as 79%, and 95% in university students. The upper extremities were most commonly affected, with minimal differences in the prevalence of symptoms between right and left sides. Due to the differences in the types of data collected, different groups of flautists could not be directly compared.
Conclusions:
The lack of studies with high evidence levels and low risk of bias in this area precludes a clear understanding of the prevalence and location of musculoskeletal symptoms in flautists, although current evidence suggests that the prevalence is high.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:28Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
01:24Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Palpation
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
01:26Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:30Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion
Inspection Findings
During an inspection, several findings may suggest the presence of respiratory distress or disease. Pursed-lip breathing, where exhalation is slowed by...
01:24Flail Chest-I
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
01:29Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract III: Percussion
Percussion in Respiratory Assessment
Percussion evaluates underlying tissue composition with audible and tactile vibrations,...