[Assessment of pain and postural defects among young adults playing the violin].

Abstract

Background: Violin playing involves prolonged upper limb exertion and asymmetrical posture, potentially leading to pain and postural defects. Despite the known prevalence of playing-related musculoskeletal disorders, data on young adult violinists compared to a control group remains insufficient. The aim of this study was to assess pain and postural problems among young adult violin players, and to compare them with those of non-violin players. Additionally, an attempt was made to identify the causes of these problems in violinists and to indicate directions that should be developed in further research.

Material and methods: The study included 50 participants (25 violinists and 25 individuals in the control group). A custom questionnaire was used to assess pain (Numerical Pain Rating Scale - NPRS), along with postural assessment based on the Kasperczyk method. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test, chi-squared test, and Spearman's correlation coefficient.

Results: In the group of violinists, pain occurred significantly more frequently in the trapezius muscle (left: 68%, p = 0.0006; right: 52%, p = 0.0169) and the left shoulder (36%, p = 0.0405). The average pain intensity (NPRS) was significantl higher in the study group than in the control group (6.6 pts vs. 4.7 pts, p = 0.0085). In terms of posture, violinists scored significantly higher on the Kasperczyk assessment (M = 9.8 pts vs. M = 6.1 pts, p = 0.0002), indicating more postural abnormalities. The most common defects in this group included forward head posture, shoulder asymmetry, and foot flattening/valgus. Additionally, 88% of violinists reported that pain interfered with their ability to play in the past week.

Conclusions: Playing the violin is associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal pain and postural abnormalities, particularly in the upper body. The results highlight the need for preventive strategies among musicians. The collected data may serve as a foundation for implementing preventive programs in music education, which should be continued into the violinist's later professional career. The data serve as a starting point for further research. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2026;77(1):27-48.