Immediate effect of exercises of scapular stabilization on shoulder and forearm muscle activation patterns while playing the violin (New exercises to strengthen musicians-Part II).

INTRODUCTION

Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in musicians due to the complex and repetitive physical demands imposed over extended durations, often in awkward postures. For violinists, the position of the arm during precise movements requires good scapular control. Indeed, scapular dyskinesis and altered motor control of stabilizer muscles are often associated with pain in violinists. This study aimed to ascertain whether exercises that activated the scapular stabilizing muscles could lead to immediate changes in motor control or altered muscle patterns while playing the violin.

METHODS

In this quasi-experimental study, 3 instrument-specific and 3 classic scapular stabilizer exercises were taught to 12 violinists. Scapular and forearm muscle activation patterns were recorded using electromyography during these exercises (in a randomized order) and while playing their instrument before and after the intervention. Post-exercise questions allowed for subjective evaluations.

RESULTS

The exercises successfully activated the scapular stabilizing muscles during task-specific and non-specific bilateral exercises, with a slight superiority observed for task-specific exercises. However, aside from the right lower trapezius, no immediate pre-/post-playing muscle activation pattern differences were observed.

CONCLUSION

Purpose-designed exercises can recruit appropriate musculature in violinists, but immediate effects on motor control during playing were not observed. Further research should investigate whether muscle activation patterns may change after a longer training period, where strength changes can occur.