When discussing Yo-yo Ma’s latest work, the general public would probably refer to the moving notes of his beautiful talent, not his athletic prowess. But are these two arenas more closely related than we think? Surprisingly, anywhere from 37-67 percent of musicians sustain injuries of the neck, back, hand or arm due to overuse.
Certainly some instruments are more demanding than others. From the moment an aspiring cellist runs the pad of their fingertip along the firm strings, they are signing up for typically the highest injury rate. They don’t know this of course, but these incidences are high due to the wide range of movement required of the shoulders, elbows and hands, as well as the sustained posture during rehearsals and concerts. Other common injuries include headaches (caused by neck and shoulder tension and strain), trigger finger, tendonitis and nerve injuries such as carpal tunnel. All of these injuries and pain syndromes can be effectively treated and prevented by improving the body’s alignment in the spine, trunk, head and extremities.
Quality and longevity are essential to any musician’s season. Being a professional artist requires untold hours of rehearsal, sitting or standing in the same posture and performing fine motor activities while concentrating on a mental task. Just as a baseball player adjusts to a curve ball, the performer reacts to the conductor and must make a timely mental and physical connection. Maintaining and improving mental sharpness during, and in spite of, the physical demands is quite difficult. Sports psychology, used to help athletes mentally prepare for competition, as well as return from injuries, has recently been utilized with musicians.
To combat the likelihood of injury, a musician can do several things: Postural strengthening, endurance exercises, relaxation techniques, proper rest and general health strategies. Learn more on the next page.
