A survey of playing-related musculoskeletal problems among professional orchestral musicians in Hong Kong

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and possible risk factors of playing-related musculoskeletal complaints (PRMCs) among musicians of the symphony orchestras in Hong Kong. Only professional orchestral musicians who have regular practices and public performances were surveyed. The survey instrument consisted of questions designed to identify possible risk factors related to PRMCs. The questionnaire was validated and pretested prior to administration. These were then distributed to the musicians during their regular rehearsal sessions and collected within 14 days. The results indicated a one-year PRMC prevalence of 64%, comparable with the findings from previous studies elsewhere. The study musicians with PRMCs during the preceding 12 months were relatively young in age (26.32 ± 5.43 years) and in playing experience (8.89 ± 4.59 years). Stepwise logistic regression identified two factors predictive of PRMCs: less experience in playing and lack of regular exercise. However, due to the small sample size, there may have been insufficient power to detect other important determinants in the development of PRMCs. Hypothesis testing on a larger sample needs to be formulated.