Marker-Based Method for Analyzing the Three-Dimensional Upper Body Kinematics of Violinists and Violists: Development and Clinical Feasibility

Abstract

AIMS: High string players (violin and viola) often suffer from musculoskeletal disorders. Although 3D motion analysis has proved helpful in diagnosing different musculoskeletal syndromes and identifying injurious movement patterns in violin and viola performance, more detailed analyses of upper body movement strategies and especially of the shoulder complex have not yet been recorded. The use of spherical surface markers on some anatomical landmarks is, however, inappropriate when an instrument is being played. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a novel marker-based method for analyzing upper body kinematics of high string players using conditions specific to violin and viola playing. METHODS: A custom upper body marker set was developed and a biomechanical model applied to 3D motion capture data of the pelvis, thorax, spine, head, and both upper limbs (scapula, upper arm, forearm, hand) of 12 professional violinists, to assess its clinical feasibility. FINDINGS: Lumbar and thoracic spine, thorax, neck, and left upper limb were quite static, while extensive motion occurred in the right upper limb. Most rotation angles showed a reasonable intersubject variability except for glenohumeral and wrist joints. Significant differences were observed between G- and D-string bowing, especially in the left wrist and right shoulder joints. INTERPRETATION: This study suggests that the proposed method is a valid tool for quantifying upper body movements in violin and viola performance. With the extended upper body model, it will improve understanding of the motor strategies adopted by high string players and may contribute to injury prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

«Переигранная Рука» Как Междисциплинарная Проблема: Вчера, Сегодня, Завтра. Часть ІІ

“…The scientific and theoretical directions of the interdisciplinary cooperation demonstrate the initial signs of a new stage of development, including the recruitment of non-musical and non-medical experts (IT personnel) at the research projects. In the 2019-2020 studies, the IT tools are used to develop the new methods of musicians' control and training in the field of the ergonomic performing style [36][37][38][39], as well as to elaborate the ergonomic design of musical instruments [40].…”

Virtual Instrument Performances (VIP): A Comprehensive Review

“…Analysis of 3D upper body kinematics of high string players during performance. Image extracted from [WMB*19]. …”

“…Investigating finger movement coordination during piano playing, the study conducted by Winges et al [WF15] discerns the nuanced differences in technique between professional and amateur musicians. Wolf et al [WMB*19], introduced a marker‐based method to explore upper body movements, with a particular focus on addressing musculoskeletal disorders of high string players (violin and viola) – see Figure 6. In the pursuit of injury prevention and performance optimization, Shan et al [SV03] delve into Overuse Syndrome in violinists, advocating for training strategies that emphasize physical economy.…”

Muskuloskelettale Therapie bei Musikerinnen und Musikern

“…Zur Behandlung von Musikern gehört auch die fundierte klinische, aber auch instrumentierte Bewegungsanalyse 96 , 97 , 98 , 99 ( Abb. 2 ).…”