Performing arts medicine and the Internet

The tremendous growth of the Internet and the World Wide Web over the last ten years has revolutionized communication in the United States. A great deal of information is available to assist in patient education and medical decision making. The field of performing arts medicine represents only a small portion of the web, but the relevant sites provide much helpful material. Bibliographic sites lead the researcher to further print resources. Many of the organizations concerned with performing arts medicine have web sites describing their history, goals, and services. Sites maintained by individuals, universities, and associations cover the field in general, as well as specific topics such as repetitive strain injuries, related computer and typing injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and hearing loss. Performing arts medicine is a highly interdisciplinary field and the collaborative nature of the Internet is well suited to this diverse, geographically dispersed population.