Head and Shoulder Functional Changes in Flutists

Ziliane Lima de Oliveira Teixeira, Filipa Martins Baptista Lã, Anabela Gonçalves da Silva
From: Medical Problems of Performing Artists: Volume 28 Number 3: Page 145 (September 2013)

Abstract: Aims: This study aimed at comparing head posture, symmetry of shoulder muscle strength, and posture among developing flutists, professional flutists, and a matched control group of singers. Methods: Measurements of head and scapular posture and muscle strength were compared between flutists with 10 yrs or less of practice (developing flutists, n=9), flutists with more than 10 years of practice (professional flutists, n=9), and singers (n=9). Posture was measured with a goniometer and tape measure; strength was assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer. Results: Significant differences were found between groups concerning forward head posture only; developing flutists showed a higher forward head posture compared to the other two groups (p<0.05). No significant differences were found for scapular posture or muscle strength. Conclusions: Developing flutists showed significantly more forward head posture. This finding supports the need to revise existing music curricula targeting the inclusion of compulsory disciplines on music medicine.

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