Playing-related physical problems: a large-scale online survey of professional and amateur Japanese drummers

Musical performances are generated through bodily movements; because they involve repetitive physical actions, there is a risk of developing playing-related physical problems (PRPPs). This study aimed to investigate PRPPs among amateur and professional drummers in Japan using an online survey, focusing on the differences between the four limbs. In addition, the study sought to compare the prevalence, affected body regions, and diagnoses of PRPPs between the two groups and identify factors associated with the development of PRPPs. The questionnaire included items regarding age, sex, handedness, musical genre, performance level, practice time, experience with PRPPs, affected body regions, and medical diagnoses. Data from 868 respondents (667 amateurs and 201 professionals) were analyzed. The self-reported prevalence of PRPPs was 33.4% and 66.2% in amateurs and professional, respectively. Among amateurs, the symptoms were most frequent in the right wrist, whereas among professionals, the right lower limb was most frequently affected. Regarding diagnosis, the most frequently reported condition was tenosynovitis among amateurs (2.10 %) and musicians dystonia among professionals (8.95%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk factors for PRPPs included higher performance levels, more significant stress related to the use of the metronome click, perfectionism, and experience of altering playing technique. In contrast, increased stress resilience was significantly associated with a decreased risk of PRPP development. There was a significant interaction indicating that the protective effect of stress resilience weakened at higher performance levels. This study revealed that professional drummers exhibited a higher prevalence of PRPPs than did amateurs, with distinct patterns of affected regions and diagnoses. Additionally, the performance level, psychological factors, and playing environment may contribute to these problems. This study may provide evidence for the revision of practice and performance methods for injury prevention tailored to each performance level.