PART ONE
Source: Central Jersey.com
If you suffer from hand, elbow, or arm pain, it is important to see your doctor for a correct diagnosis. In many cases, they will recommend physical therapy as part of your overall treatment plan.
Bursitis, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), is inflammation of a bursa, one of the small, fluid-filled sacs located throughout the body that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues and help to reduce friction. In musicians, bursitis usually occurs in the elbow and shoulder, and like with tendinitis is a result of repeated small stresses and overuse.
Symptoms of bursitis include pain and swelling. In many people, bursitis and tendinitis will often occur together.
The Outpatient Rehabilitation Program for Musicians at PMC provides patients with a personalized evaluation that includes:
Postural screening.
An overall strength and flexibility assessment.
An instrument-specific ergonomic evaluation.
Expert analysis on playing-related muscle pain and dysfunction.
Treatment includes:
• Strength and flexibility exercises to alleviate the physical stress caused by playing an instrument.
• Hands-on therapeutic techniques for reducing tightness and pain.
• Education on injury prevention.
• Assistance in improving overall strength, agility, and endurance necessary for practice and performance.
After a few sessions, which are usually covered by insurance, musicians typically have the tools in place to heal and prevent future injury.
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine offers these tips to help musicians prevent repetitive motion injuries:
• Perform warmup exercises before playing and cooldown exercises afterward, especially for the shoulders, elbows, hands, and upper back/neck.
• Take short breaks during long practice sessions.
• Adopt a practice or rehearsal schedule that allows more intense playing to be interspersed with practice that is less intense and varies the muscles being used.
• Discuss appropriate, efficient music technique with a qualified music teacher, including how it relates to the repertoire.
• Apply ice for 15 minutes after playing for minor aches and discomfort.
If you are a musician who is persistently playing through pain, talk to your doctor about how physical therapy can help alleviate your symptoms.
For more information about the Outpatient Rehabilitation Program for Musicians at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center (PMC), call 609-655-4586 or visit PrincetonHCS.org.