Affiliations: School of Health Sciences, University of Ulster,
Newtownabbey, UK | CHaRT (Centre for Health and Rehabilitation
Technologies), Newtownabbey, UK | School of Creative Arts, University of Ulster,
Newtownabbey, UK | Arts and Humanities Research Institute, Newtownabbey,
UK
Note: [] Corresponding author: Iseult M. Wilson, Room 1B102, School of Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB, UK. Tel.: +44 28 9036 6244; Fax: +44 28 9036 8419; E-mail: i.wilson@ulster.ac.uk
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) are
common in musicians and interfere with the ability to play an instrument at the
accustomed level. There is limited research into injuries affecting folk
musicians. OBJECTIVE: To explore the Irish traditional musicians'
experience of PRMDs. METHODS: Focus group interviews were conducted in
2011 and 2012, in two venues in Ireland. Data were recorded and transcribed
verbatim. Data collection ended when no new findings emerged from the analysis
of interviews. The inclusion criteria were: males or females aged 18 and above,
and who taught or played Irish traditional music on any instrument. The data
were analysed using the interpretative phenomenological method. RESULTS: All participants (n=22) believed there was a link between playing music and
musculoskeletal problems. The main body areas affected were the back,
shoulders, arms and hands. The main theme that emerged was: 'PRMDs are an
integral part of being a traditional musician', and that the musical experience
was generally prioritised over the health of the musician. There were
sub-themes of 'fear' and 'stresses that contributed to PRMDs'. CONCLUSIONS: PRMDs are an occupational hazard for Irish musicians. There is an awareness
of PRMDs, but changes (technique, environment) may threaten identity.
Keywords: Injury, disability, pain, folk music, work, leisure
