BACKGROUND: The present study is part of a project designed to
investigate the development of disorders related to the work of orchestra
violinists.
OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the functional disorders of the
musculoskeletal systems of violinists from the four orchestras in Belo
Horizonte, Brazil.
METHOD: Analyses of musculoskeletal system disorders found in
violinists from orchestras in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, were completed using a
variety of approaches, including Occupational Therapy, Epidemiology and the
Social Science methodologies.
RESULTS: Participants sustained musculoskeletal disorders despite
their common sense belief that musicians are generally healthier than other
professional groups. The struggle for a better financial situation forced
study participants to work harder, in a variety of work environments,
increasing and diversifying their exposure to risk factors. Protective and
preventive measures were scarce and in most cases these were only employed
after the onset of musculoskeletal disorders.
CONCLUSIONS: The use of inadequate strategies and the lack of
appropriate options to deal with risk factors contributed to the maintenance
of symptoms or the onset of health disorders.
