Performance-related pain and disability among music students versus professional musicians: a multicenter study using a validated tool

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Zao, A (Author) Other; Altenmüller, E (Author) Other; Azevedo L (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Pain Medicine

Vol. 25

Pages: 568-576

ISSN: 1526-2375

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-010-A7G

DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnae032

Abstract (EN): Objective: To evaluate prevalence of performance-related pain among musicians and compare pain characteristics, associated disability and approach to pain management, between music students and professional musicians. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was performed in a multi-stage stratified cluster random sample of 585 musicians, stratified by music students (294, among which 234 were at pre-university level and 60 at university level) and professional musicians (291). The main outcome was performance-related pain, measured by Performance-related Pain among Musicians Questionnaire (PPAM). Secondary outcomes were: pain management approach, physical activity levels, fatigue, distress, and health-related quality of life. Results: The lifetime prevalence of performance-related pain was 55.0% (n = 322), being significantly higher among professionals (57.5% vs 42.5%, P < .001). Pain intensity scores were significantly higher in professional musicians (P < .05), but pain interference in performance was higher among music students, who also reported significantly higher levels of fatigue (P = .008) and distress (P < .001), and lower quality of life (P < .001). Regardless of the high levels of pain intensity and interference, fatigue, anxiety and depression, and low levels of quality of life, 33% musicians who developed pain had never looked for healthcare (this proportion is significantly higher for music students, 57%, P < .001). Conclusions: We present the first multicenter study on performance-related pain among musicians with different backgrounds, using a validated tool, and distinguishing music students from professional musicians. Performance-related pain is a highly prevalent and disabling condition among musicians, however, its proper evaluation and management are still often underappreciated, contributing to significant impairments and reduced quality of life.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 9