Musculoskeletal and psychological assessments used in quantitatively based studies about musicians’ health in brass players: A systematic literature review

Objective Brass players are exposed to high musculoskeletal strains during their instrumental play. Various assessments can be used to measure these strains, whereby a targeted therapy can also be supported. The aim of this study was to review literature concerning assessments used in quantitatively based studies about the analysis of musculoskeletal loads of brass players. Data sources The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, PEDro as well as the journal “Medical Problems of Performing Artists” were searched for relevant studies. Study selection Two reviewers independently applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria to select potential studies. A third reviewer was involved in the case of discrepancies. Data extraction Two reviewers independently extracted the data. Data synthesis A total of 73 studies conducted between 2004 and 2019 were included. Within a total of 30 studies, 18 assessments could be found that collect 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional kinematic data using video- or image-based analysis of posture, sonographic, optoelectronic and various electromagnetic systems. In 7 studies kinetic data were measured by force-transducers, pressure platforms, stabilizer and dynamometer. Fifteen studies used clinical examinations and additional assessments to screen individual body regions and 9 studies derived electromyography measurements from a total of 25 muscles. Thirty-one partially validated questionnaires were used to record musculoskeletal pain of brass players. Conclusions A variety of assessments can be used to optimize analysis and treatment procedures in research and clinical work. Future studies should both examine quality criteria of the various assessment methods and validate clinical examinations and questionnaires.