A Scoping Review of Exercise Intervention for Playing- Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (PRMDs) among Musicians

Abstract Exercise-based programmes have been used successfully in the prevention of musculoskeletal problems in sport and among performing artists. However, the components and the implementation protocol of the exercise programmes vary but the main focus is on managing the presenting symptoms of the musician. The aim of this study was to explore evidence concerning the components of exercise-based programmes in the management of musculoskeletal problems among musicians. A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature from the inception of associated databases up to June 2016 was conducted on exercise-based intervention for musculoskeletal problems among musicians. A total of 176 articles were identified and 12 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The components of the prescribed exercises are focused on strengthening and stabilising the core. They include stretching exercises prior to performance to reduce strain to the musculoskeletal system and proprioceptive motor control exercises. As such, this study highlights the importance of exercise-based interventions in mitigating the severity of musculoskeletal problems.