INDIAN MRIDANGAM ARTIST AND ASSOCIATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS

Background: Percussion artists are prone to develop musculoskeletal injuries. Mridangam is one of the most popular accompaniments in an Indian Carnatic Music recital. Thus, the aim of the study is to explore the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders amongst Mridangam artists. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Mridangam artists from various music school participated in the study over the period of 6 months. Self-made questionnaire was administered to artists comprising of demographic data, practice habits, and information about instrument usage. Using a video camera, the posture was recorded and analyzed. The recorded video was evaluated for risk factors. Results: This study revealed a 40% prevalence of playing related musculoskeletal affection among the Mridangam artists. Low back region was the most affected followed by knee and shoulder. Conclusion: The assessment of hazards revealed that the artists have medium exposure level of risk factors. Mridangam a form of percussion instrument has minimal detrimental effects on the artists must be promoted more. Title: Indian Mridangam Artist and Musculoskeletal Disorders