Several studies have emphasised the power of music on our brain, especially on the development of the sensorimotor areas, resulting in higher levers of sensorimotor control for musicians. At the same time, this population appears particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), with a lifetime prevalence of injuries globally reaching up to 93%.
Therefore, it is a concern for every musician. Early prevention seems to have a key role in limiting MSD, since even music students already suffer from physical and sometimes mental health conditions compared with age-matched students.
Only a few studies of limited quality investigated prevention programmes for musicians. They all included various topics including anatomy and physiology, posture, routine exercises or even coping with performance.
The present RCT aimed at developing knowledge on the best and effective ways to prevent MSD in music students, while comparing a biopsychosocial prevention programme with general physical activity promotion. According to the authors, there were no significant difference in reducing disabilities caused by MSD between both prevention programmes.