Evaluation of Training Induced Neuromuscular Fatigue of Orchestral Violin Players

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the muscle fatigue and self-perceived exertion level on violin players before and after a training session. Fourteen professional violin players volunteered in this study. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to record the fatigue level of the upper trapezius muscles before and after a training session. Medium Frequency (MF) of the EMG signals was used to document the fatigue rate of this muscle. Regression analysis and paired sample t-tests revealed no significant difference in the slopes of MF on both sides of trapezius muscle, before and after the training sessions. However, the Borg Scale ratings of perceived exertion revealed significant increase in fatigue level (p=0.003) after the training session. The disparity in the subjective perception with the objective findings indicated that the violists' self-perceived exertion arises from multiple sources. The high prevalence of playing-related musculoskeletal complaints (79%) in this group of players warrants further ergonomic investigation of possible work-related risk factors.