The angle of trunk rotation and symmetry of a lower limb loading in musicians of a symphony orchestra in Poland: a pilot study concerning instrument-specific results

Abstract

Background The study aimed to evaluate the angle of trunk rotation (ATR) and symmetry of lower limb loading in professional musicians. Material and Methods A total of 60 instrumentalists were examined: cellists, violinists and musicians playing wind instruments. The scoliometer examination was used to assess trunk asymmetry. The angle of trunk rotation was measured at segment: Th1–Th4, Th5–Th12, and Th12–L4. The maximum value (ATR max) and the sum of three rotations (STR) were calculated. Two scales were used to assess the symmetry of lower limb loading. Loading symmetry index (LSI) of the lower limb was calculated. Results Violinists have the highest mean values of ATR, ATR max, STR and LSI and musicians playing wind instruments have the lowest mean values. In the group of violinists and musicians playing wind instruments, a positive correlation was found between playing experience and ATR Th1–Th4. Conclusions The body position during playing violin and cello may increase the angle of trunk rotation and the lower limb loading’s asymmetry. Med Pr. 2022;73(2):85–93

Keywords

• occupational diseases
• scoliosis
• violinists
• cellists
• angle of trunk rotation
• scoliometer