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Factors Associated with Performance-Related Pain Among Musicians: A Multicenter Study Using Validated Tools
Ana Zão1,2,3,4,5, Eckart Altenmüller6, Luís Azevedo7,8
1Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine - University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal. anazao100@gmail.com.
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation
|July 16, 2024
Summary
Professional musicians experience more performance-related pain (PRP), while music students report higher fatigue and distress. This study identifies 16 factors linked to PRP, aiding prevention and management strategies for musicians.
Area of Science:
- Music performance science
- Occupational health
- Musculoskeletal disorders
Background:
- Performance-related pain (PRP) is a significant issue for musicians.
- Understanding factors contributing to PRP is crucial for effective intervention.
- Previous research has not comprehensively compared music students and professional musicians regarding PRP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate factors associated with performance-related pain (PRP) in musicians.
- To compare music students and professional musicians regarding PRP prevalence and associated factors.
- To identify both statistically significant and self-perceived factors contributing to PRP.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 585 musicians (294 students, 291 professionals).
- Utilized the Performance-related Pain among Musicians Questionnaire (PPAM) to assess PRP.
- Employed validated questionnaires to measure physical activity, fatigue, psychological distress, perfectionism, and health-related quality of life.
Main Results:
- Over half (55.0%) of the musicians reported PRP.
- Professional musicians had a significantly higher lifetime prevalence of PRP (57.5%) compared to students.
- Music students reported higher levels of fatigue, anxiety, and depression, and lower quality of life.
Conclusions:
- This study provides a comprehensive assessment of factors associated with PRP in diverse musician populations.
- Identified 16 statistically significant factors and 25 self-perceived factors linked to PRP.
- Findings will inform the development of targeted preventive programs and evidence-based management strategies for musicians experiencing PRP.
