Overuse syndrome in musicians

Preview

When a pianist complains of stiffness in the ring finger or a cellist complains of shoulder pain, what approach should the physician take? Is rest the only way to relieve or prevent such ailments? Ironically, the long hours of practice needed for a performing career are often the bane of musicians. Dr Mandel discusses the common symptoms of overuse syndrome in both professional and amateur musicians and describes a sensible approach to evaluation and treatment. Three illustrative cases are included.