Illustration of a musician playing string instrument with anatomical elements and musical notes in the background, symbolizing the link between music and physical well-being.

The Symphony of Strain: How Playing Music Can Lead to Pain (And What You Can Do About It)

Mira Elwood in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Unmasking the Hidden Risks: Understanding the Link Between Playing Time and Musculoskeletal Pain in Musicians"

For musicians, the pursuit of perfection is a lifelong journey. Hours spent honing skills, mastering complex pieces, and pushing creative boundaries are often the hallmarks of dedication. But what if the very act of pursuing musical excellence could lead to an unexpected consequence: pain? Recent studies have illuminated a critical connection between playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP) and the amount of time spent practicing and performing.

PRMP, encompassing a range of conditions from tendinitis to tenosynovitis, affects musicians across various instruments. Bowed string instrument (BSI) players, including violinists, cellists, and violists, are particularly vulnerable due to the sustained, asymmetrical postures required by their craft. This often leads to uneven strain on the body, increasing the risk of pain.

This article explores the relationship between changes in playing time and the development of PRMP, drawing from recent research to provide actionable insights. We'll delve into the factors that contribute to playing-related pain and explore strategies to mitigate the risks, helping musicians maintain their passion while safeguarding their physical well-being.

The Price of Practice: Unveiling the Link Between Playing Time and Pain

Illustration of a musician playing string instrument with anatomical elements and musical notes in the background, symbolizing the link between music and physical well-being.

The demands placed on musicians are multifaceted, and among the most significant is the time commitment. Whether preparing for a recital, audition, or simply striving for improvement, musicians frequently adjust their practice schedules. A sudden increase in playing time, particularly during intensive training or performance periods, can significantly elevate the risk of developing PRMP.

Research indicates that an increase in playing time is strongly correlated with an increase in the frequency and intensity of pain. This suggests that the body's soft tissues may not always adapt quickly enough to the increased demands, leading to the onset of painful symptoms. For young musicians, whose bodies are still developing, these risks may be even more pronounced.

Overuse: Practicing too much, too soon, can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Poor Technique: Incorrect posture and hand positions can exacerbate the strain.
Lack of Rest: Insufficient breaks can prevent the body from recovering.
Environmental Factors: Poorly designed instruments or performance spaces can contribute to discomfort.

The study found that changes in playing time were significantly associated with changes in the characteristics of pain. This highlights the importance of carefully managing practice schedules and recognizing the potential impact of sudden increases in playing duration. Early interventions, such as adjusting practice habits or incorporating preventive measures, can play a crucial role in mitigating the risks and safeguarding long-term health.

Harmonizing Health and Harmony: Empowering Musicians

As musicians, the relationship with our instruments is a deeply personal one. It's essential to acknowledge the potential risks associated with the pursuit of musical excellence. By understanding the connection between playing time and PRMP and incorporating preventive measures, musicians can proactively safeguard their health and ensure a long, fulfilling journey in music. Prioritizing well-being allows musicians to not only enhance their performance but also to sustain their passion for music for years to come. Always consult with healthcare professionals specializing in performing arts medicine for personalized guidance and support.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.21091/mppa.2018.1003, Alternate LINK

Title: Impact Of Changes In Playing Time On Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Pain In String Music Students

Subject: History and Philosophy of Science

Journal: Medical Problems of Performing Artists

Publisher: Science and Medicine, Inc.

Authors: Judith Robitaille, Yannick Tousignant-Laflamme, Manon Guay

Published: 2018-03-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP), and which musicians are most at risk?

Playing-related musculoskeletal pain, or PRMP, encompasses a range of conditions like tendinitis and tenosynovitis that affect musicians. Bowed string instrument (BSI) players such as violinists, cellists, and violists are particularly vulnerable due to the sustained, asymmetrical postures their instruments require, leading to uneven strain and increased risk of PRMP. While not explicitly mentioned, keyboard players and wind instrumentalists are also susceptible to PRMP due to repetitive motions and specific postural demands. Addressing PRMP is crucial, as ignoring it can lead to chronic pain and potentially career-ending injuries.

How does an increase in playing time contribute to the development of playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP)?

An increase in playing time, especially sudden increases during intensive training or performance preparation, elevates the risk of developing playing-related musculoskeletal pain, or PRMP. Research indicates a strong correlation between increased playing time and heightened frequency and intensity of pain, suggesting the body's soft tissues may not adapt quickly enough to the increased demands. Young musicians are particularly at risk, as their bodies are still developing. It is important to gradually increase practice time to allow the body to adjust and avoid overuse injuries.

Besides increased playing time, what other factors can contribute to playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP) in musicians?

Besides increased playing time, other factors that can contribute to playing-related musculoskeletal pain, or PRMP, include overuse (practicing too much, too soon), poor technique (incorrect posture and hand positions), lack of rest (insufficient breaks), and environmental factors (poorly designed instruments or performance spaces). These factors exacerbate strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It's important to address all these factors holistically, as they often interact to increase the risk of developing PRMP. The interplay of these elements emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to musician wellness.

What strategies can musicians implement to mitigate the risks of developing playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP) and safeguard their physical well-being?

Musicians can mitigate the risks of developing playing-related musculoskeletal pain, or PRMP, by carefully managing practice schedules, recognizing the potential impact of sudden increases in playing duration, and incorporating preventive measures. Early interventions, such as adjusting practice habits, taking sufficient breaks, and improving technique, play a crucial role. Consulting healthcare professionals specializing in performing arts medicine for personalized guidance and support is also essential. The importance of ergonomic considerations in practice and performance spaces, as well as regular stretching and strengthening exercises, are also crucial for preventing PRMP.

Why is it important for musicians to prioritize their physical well-being, and how does it relate to their musical performance and passion?

Prioritizing physical well-being allows musicians to not only enhance their performance but also to sustain their passion for music for years to come. Understanding the connection between playing time and playing-related musculoskeletal pain, or PRMP, and incorporating preventive measures enables musicians to proactively safeguard their health. Neglecting physical well-being can lead to chronic pain, potentially hindering their ability to perform and diminishing their love for music. This proactive approach also extends a musician's career, allowing them to continue pursuing their artistic goals without physical limitations. The long-term benefits of prioritizing well-being far outweigh any perceived short-term gains from pushing through pain.