So says the Texas Center for Music and Medicine, which finds the causes, treatment, and preventive measures for such conditions as tendonitis in those who play instruments. It is dedicated to research, education, and patient care that will enhance the health, performance, and careers of musicians. The center's first study involved wrist, neck, shoulder, and hand problems experienced by clarinet players. The multidisciplinary center employed the bioengineering department to measure the force on a clarinetist's thumb while playing. Computer technology showed that a simple elastic shoulder strap could make the difference in whether the artist would develop tendonitis.
Musicians are highly trained and focused on one specific task.
A professional would never play without warming up, but they still get arm, hand, shoulder, hip, and lower back problems. The center's research will examine musicians' hearing loss, musculoskeletal and sensory dysfunction, occupational stress, and other psychosocial stresses. UNT College of Music has 1,400 students. Chris Chesky, PhD, knows firsthand the hazards the center will investigate. He is a professional musician and a faculty member at the health science center and at UNT College of Music.