The effect of strategies to prevent and manage musicians' musculoskeletal symptoms: a systematic review

Abstract

The objective of this systematic review was to determine the safety and effectiveness of any public health intervention designed to prevent and/or manage musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSs) in any type of musician. A total of 14 studies were included. Studies investigated exercise and/or education programs, and changes to equipment, with a range of musicians. There was some evidence to suggest that smaller piano keyboards, and exercise programs may be effective. Studies suggesting a benefit of exercise programs typically had lower level designs and higher risk of methodological bias, compared with those that reported no benefit. Future research should use more robust methods to reduce bias and come to definitive conclusions regarding the safety and effectiveness of interventions prior to implementation, to reduce the burden of MSSs for musicians.