Hand-Arm Vibration Exposures in Male Drummers: A Cross-Sectional Study

Exposure to hand-arm vibration (HAV) is associated with the development of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), one of the most frequently reported playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) in drummers (i.e., percussionists who play the drum kit). Moderate levels of HAV exposure were previously reported for short durations of drumming (i.e., 3 minutes), but investigating HAV exposure under more realistic playing conditions is warranted. In this cross-sectional study, a triaxial accelerometer recorded HAV exposures while participants played three songs of their choosing (mean set duration: 12 ± 2 minutes). Daily vibration exposure 8-hour energy equivalent values [A(8)] were calculated as per the International Organization for Standardization 5349-1:2001 standard based on the participants' self-reported typical daily playing time. These were compared to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists action limit (AL: 2.5 m/s2) and threshold limit value (TLV: 5.0 m/s2) for HAV exposure. Twelve male drummers registered mean A(8) values that were significantly larger than both the AL and TLV (left hand: 8.5 m/s2; right hand: 10.1 m/s2; p ≤ 0.02). All participants' A(8) values exceeded the AL in at least one hand; 11 of them exceeded it in both hands. Nine participants exceeded the TLV in both hands. HAV exposures of these magnitudes are likely to contribute to the development of CTS and other PRMDs. Further analyses incorporating more diverse playing scenarios, musical genres, sexes/genders, and drummer skill levels would further advance understanding of HAV exposure during drumming. This enhanced knowledge will promote greater understanding of the etiology of PRMDs in this population and will facilitate the development of strategies to reduce drummers' risk of developing PRMDs associated with HAV exposure.