Clinical Research Directory

OPErA Orchestral Posture Egonomic Assessment

This is an observational study that will allow to understand if and how posture at the instrument can affect musician health and ability to work. The study will last 3 years during which the investigators will evaluate 250 orchestral players: all musical instruments will be included. Postural assessments will be performed in the various venues of the participating orchestras. The study participant, would initially answer a questionnaire that will investigate lifestyle habits (physical activity), professional activity (e.g. instrument played, hours of study/work, study methods) and general health (e.g. presence of pain with functional limitation at the present time or in the past, diagnosis of scoliosis). The subsequent postural assessment will consist of two phases: phase 1 without an instrument in a sitting position, phase 2 with the musical instrument . Disposable ECG electrodes will be applied to the skin and will serve as landmarks and will be removed at the end of the assessment. In both phases, the Physical Analyzer Portable system will be used, which allows the acquisition of calibrated photographs and the subsequent processing of the data obtained through special software, calculating with numerical values the postural asymmetries between the right and left sides and the degrees of inclination of the trunk. The execution of the planned assessments will take place in the constant presence and under the guidance and control of suitable and qualified personnel who will provide instructions on the activity to be carried out and assistance in case of any need. The data obtained in this way will be correlated with the information collected with the questionnaire. Improving musician posture awareness with the musical instrument could prevent the onset of pain and limitations in work activity. In fact, the identification of risk factors for musculoskeletal pathologies in professional musicians (PRMDs) would allow the development of specific prevention and treatment programs and the development of a network of territorial services dedicated to the musicians themselves.