Medical problems of performing artists
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Med Probl Perform Art · Sep 2022
Musicians Focal Dystonia: The Practitioner's Perspective on Psychological, Psychosocial, and Behavioural Risk Factors and Non-motor Symptoms.
Musician's focal dystonia (MFD) is a painless, task-specific neurological movement disorder that impairs fine motor control when playing an instrument. The pathophysiology is not fully understood, and while the available treatment strategies can help with improving motor control, they are rarely able to fully and reliably rehabilitate playing skills. Recent studies suggest that apart from genetic factors, maladaptive neuroplasticity, and the repetitive nature of the instrumental technique, psychosocial, psychological, and behavioural factors might also play a role in the onset of MFD. ⋯ A detailed patient profile emerged from the data with three main components: 1) the negative impact of social environments, including traumatic experiences and low quality of instrumental teaching; 2) a perfectionist, anxious, overly sensitive, and acquiescent personality type; and 3) obsessive, controlling, and inadequate practice behaviours. Participants stated MFD needs to be treated holistically and that neglecting these aspects during treatment could jeopardise rehabilitation. Further objective, controlled research trials are needed to describe these factors in detail, quantify their potential impact as risk factors, and understand how they might hinder therapy.
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Med Probl Perform Art · Sep 2022
Effect of Myofascial Induction Therapy in Pterygoid Muscles of Woodwinds and String Musicians on Muscular Stiffness of the Upper Trapezius.
Considering the fascial continuity and its biomechanical characteristics, the purpose of this study was to assess the change in muscular stiffness (Dm) of the upper trapezius muscles after the application of myofascial induction therapy (MIT) to the masticatory muscles of musicians. ⋯ MIT of the lateral pterygoids is effective in decreasing upper trapezius stiffness as measured by an increase in the Dm measured by tensiomyography. The greatest change occurred in musicians with a lower percentage of Neck Disability Index at baseline.
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Med Probl Perform Art · Sep 2022
EditorialComponents of Pre-professional/Adolescent Dance Screens: What Should We Include?
Increasingly, best practice in dance healthcare includes preseason screening. But do preseason screenings give us useful information? Can they provide assessment of injury risk? Can we use a common screen for all athletes or need ones specific to dancers? What is the purpose of screening and what tests are appropriate for adolescent dancers? In this editorial, I make recommendations based on over 20 years of experience screening pre-professional and professional dancers.