Injury prevention: What music teachers can do

Abstract

Research in performing arts medicine has demonstrated that approximately 25% of music students experience a playing-related injury. Since musicians’ musculoskeletal injuries are associated with several factors related to practice habits, music teachers can and should play a vital role in injury prevention. There is evidence that music teachers who receive relevant training in music-specific physiology do make changes in their teaching, and that these changes subsequently benefit their students. This paper aims to provide music teachers with practical prevention strategies that can be used with all instrumentalists. Included are specific instructions regarding the nature and importance of several strategies, including: taking breaks, pacing techniques, cognitive rehearsal, ergonomics, warm-up and cool-down, preparing for performances, and the question of whether or not stretching is advisable. Emphasis will be placed on how music teachers (regardless of instrument) can incorporate prevention strategies into their lessons.