Medical problems of performing artists
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Med Probl Perform Art · Dec 2024
Comparative StudyA Descriptive Comparison of Oral Cavity Movements Between Brass Instrumentalists Performing Large Interval Slurs.
We have previously described patterns of oral cavity movement in advanced French horn players during the performance of large interval slurs. The current study expands upon that work by reporting comparisons between horn, trumpet, and trombone players performing similar large interval exercises. ⋯ Conformational changes of the oral cavity (vocal-tract tuning) during large interval slurs in the upper register may assist performance in trumpet and horn players. Trombone players may also employ these strategies when the extreme upper register is involved, but future study must verify this.
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Med Probl Perform Art · Dec 2024
Association Between Bone Maturation, Menstrual Cycle, Hypermobility, Scoliosis, and Low Back Pain in Pre-Professional Female Adolescent Dancers.
Many adult dancers suffer from low back pain (LBP), which interferes with their movement strategies. A group that merits further attention are adolescent dancers as high levels of physical activity are associated with a higher risk to develop LBP. ⋯ Based on the results of current study, delayed bone maturation and menstrual cycle disorders are common in pre-professional female dancers, but this was not related to LBP. Additionally, out of 27 variables, only starting dance activities under age 6 years old, showing hip asymmetry, and showing less internal hip rotation may be contributing factors for the development of LBP in pre-professional dancers.
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Med Probl Perform Art · Dec 2024
Perceptions and Prevalence of Anxiolytic Medication Usage for Performance Enhancement Among Musicians.
While anecdotal reports of the use of performance-enhancing medications to curb anxiety in performing artists abound, there has been no research to date assessing the prevalence of usage and attitudes towards use amongst the artists themselves. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceptions, acquisition, and use of potentially performance-enhancing medications (benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, and cannabinoids) in the performing artist community to clarify the use of these medications to improve patient counseling and patient safety. ⋯ The results of this study demonstrate current use patterns of beta-blockers, benzodiazepines, and cannabis-containing products in the musician population. Beta-blockers appear to be well tolerated and most frequently used for performance anxiety.
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Med Probl Perform Art · Dec 2024
Enhancing Physiotherapy Care for Touring Performing Arts Companies: A Model for Quality and Continuity.
Touring presents significant physical and logistical challenges for performing artists, often leading companies to seek healthcare support. This paper outlines a physiotherapy care model developed by a performing arts clinic for a touring puppet company during a 38-city US tour. The model addressed common issues, such as lack of continuity of care, by establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs), pre-tour assessments, and the use of a unified electronic medical records (EMR) system. ⋯ Post-tour exit interviews revealed that the continuity and structure of care positively impacted both physical and mental well-being, leading to more effective treatment sessions. The absence of time-loss injuries throughout the tour further underscored the model's success. The paper concludes by recommending further research to explore the long-term effects of such care models and their potential to become standard practice for touring productions.