Incorrect training and conditioning can lead to poor technique and cause the musician to be at risk for injury when playing passages of music that are too advanced or difficult for someone without perfect technique. Even with a musician who is playing properly, if performance or practice time exceeds that which the body is able to handle without fatigue, they to are at risk for injury. Many musicians are on a rigorous performance schedule which allows inadequate recovery time between performances. This can cause fatigue and lead to injury. Other than physiological strain, there is also psychological strain associated with performance.
Musicians can experience stage fright or anxiety just as other performing artists do.
This can be translated by the body into tension in the musculoskeletal system which puts even greater strain on the performer who is trying to give a perfect and emotionally moving performance. This type of stress can result in less control on the instrument and decreased endurance. Another risk to performers is the requirement of some instruments that they be held in one place against gravity in order to be played. Static posturing can lead to fatigue and diminished venous return. The repetition of practice and performance can also cause repetitive trauma to weakened tissue if the body is not properly prepared.