Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (PRMDs) are a significant concern for professional pianists, potentially leading to pain, disability, and career interruption. This research focuses on identifying effective ergonomic interventions to mitigate these risks.

Core Objectives

• To evaluate the impact of individualized ergonomic setups (bench height, keyboard distance, pedal positioning) on playing posture and muscle strain.
• To assess the effectiveness of targeted stretching and strengthening exercise programs in preventing common pianist injuries.
• To develop a comprehensive ergonomic guideline for pianists based on biomechanical principles and empirical evidence.

Methodology

A longitudinal study was conducted with professional pianists and advanced students. Participants underwent baseline ergonomic assessments, followed by personalized interventions including setup adjustments and exercise regimens. Data on pain levels, playing comfort, and biomechanical markers (e.g., joint angles, muscle activation via EMG) were collected over 18 months.

Key Findings & Publication

The study demonstrated a significant reduction in reported pain and discomfort, along with improved postural alignment in the intervention group. Specific exercises targeting forearm and shoulder stability were found to be particularly beneficial. The full findings are published in the 'Journal of Music and Medicine' (Vol. X, Issue Y) and offer practical recommendations for pianists, teachers, and healthcare professionals.