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Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology
Published in: Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 1/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Research

Comparison between the musician-specific seating position of high string bow players and their habitual seating position – a video raster stereographic study of the dorsal upper body posture

Authors: Daniela Ohlendorf, Jennifer Marx, Kathrin Clasen, Eileen M. Wanke, Stefan Kopp, David A. Groneberg, Stefanie Uibel

Published in: Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

Background

Effects of playing high stringed bow instruments on the upper body posture have not been analysed so far. The instrument-specific seating position when playing in an orchestra is compared to the habitual seating position.

Methods

Three dimensional back scans were performed in 13 professional violinists and viola players of a radio orchestra (8 f / 5 m). Trunk position in their habitual seating position and in the instrument- specific seating position imitating playing was compared. Statistical differences were calculated using Wilcoxon Matched Pairs Test with Bonferroni Holm correction.

Results

Significant differences were found between the seated position with instrument and without (p < 0.001, 0.03, 0.02 or 0.01) in the spine (trunk length, sagittal trunk decline, lumbar bending angle, maximal rotation, standard deviation rotation, lumbar lordosis), the shoulder (scapula distance, scapula rotation, scapula angle right) and pelvis distance.

Conclusions

Playing an instrument changes the static seating position by increased rotation of the spine and specific shoulder adaptations holding the instrument (left arm) and the bow (right arm), with minor effects on the pelvis. This forced position may result in chronic health effects. The method used in this study is an approach to better understand the involved muscular structures and possible resulting health damages.
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Metadata
Title
Comparison between the musician-specific seating position of high string bow players and their habitual seating position – a video raster stereographic study of the dorsal upper body posture
Authors
Daniela Ohlendorf
Jennifer Marx
Kathrin Clasen
Eileen M. Wanke
Stefan Kopp
David A. Groneberg
Stefanie Uibel
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6673
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12995-018-0217-6

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