Art and Health: Frequency of Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Musicians of the Symphonic Orchestra of the State University of Londrina

Abstract

This study had the purpose of determining the frequency of musculoskeletal symptoms in musicians of the Symphonic Orchestra of the State University of Londrina. 45 musicians took part in this study answering a self-administered questionnaire with the following aspects: personal data, job-factor survey, symptom related to work, treatment and its consequences. As for the analysis of the variables the quisquare Test was used with Yates correction and the Test of Fisher. Of the 45 musicians studied, 82,2% were men and with an average age of 39,56 years old. Of all the researched musicians, 77,8% reported the presence of musculoskeletal symptoms during the last twelve months and 71,1% in the last seven days. The highest prevalence was in the following anatomical areas: shoulders, neck, spine, hands and wrists. The present study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in musicians who play string and wind instruments. Due to the symptoms, 33,3% of the professionals lost days of work. The present study found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms not only during the last twelve months but also during the last seven days that preceded the answering of the questionnaire, mainly in the spine and shoulders area. These symptoms can be related to physical and emotional loads. Taking the results into account, the elaboration and implantation of strategies to soften the workload and to avoid disorders are necessary.