International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS)
Prevalence of Playing Related Musculoskeletal Disorder in Keyboard and Guitar Players
Published February 7, 2026 • Vol. 11, Issue 1, pp. 887–890Open Access
DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.11010075
Abstract
Background: Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) are common among musicians due to prolonged practice hours, repetitive movements, and sustained awkward postures. Despite growing global literature, limited Indian data exist focusing on keyboard and guitar players.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of PRMDs among keyboard and guitar players and to assess pain intensity, instrument-related functional difficulties, and upper limb disability.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 132 keyboard and guitar players aged ≥16 years from Nagpur city. Participants practicing for more than five hours per week were assessed using the Performing Arts Module of the DASH questionnaire, Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), and Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Results: The overall prevalence of PRMDs was found to be high, with the neck, shoulder, wrist, and hand being the most commonly affected regions. Moderate levels of pain and functional disability were observed, particularly in participants practicing for more than 14 hours per week.
Conclusion: PRMDs are highly prevalent among keyboard and guitar players. Early screening, ergonomic education, and physiotherapy-based preventive strategies are essential to reduce disability and improve performance longevity.
Keywords: Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders, musicians, keyboard players
| Journal | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS) |
|---|---|
| ISSN | 2454-6194 |
| Volume / Issue | Volume 11, Issue 1 |
| Pages | 887–890 |
| Publication date | February 7, 2026 |
| DOI | 10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.11010075 |
| Publisher | RSIS International |
| License | Open Access |
How to cite this article
Atul kale, Pankaj Raghute, Amol Shinde, Kushal Toshniwal, Neha deshmukh, & Asavari Barshikar (2026). Prevalence of Playing Related Musculoskeletal Disorder in Keyboard and Guitar Players. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS), 11(1), 887-890. https://doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.11010075
BibTeX
@article{Atul2026,
title = {Prevalence of Playing Related Musculoskeletal Disorder in Keyboard and Guitar Players},
author = {Atul kale and Pankaj Raghute and Amol Shinde and Kushal Toshniwal and Neha deshmukh and Asavari Barshikar},
journal = {International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS)},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {887--890},
year = {2026},
doi = {10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.11010075},
publisher = {RSIS International}
}