Chronische Schmerzen bei Musikern und Überempfindlichkeit

Musicians bring unique beauty and emotion to the world through their art, yet this creative process also demands dedication and can lead to physical exertion.

While perfectionism, high standards, and an intense professional life are challenging aspects of being a musician, they also offer an opportunity for personal growth and the development of resilience. However, they are also risk factors for the development of chronic pain.

Pain is an essential part of our lives, warning us of tissue damage and supporting healing processes. However, chronic pain, lasting longer than three months, often extends beyond the function of an acute injury and leads to changes in the affected tissue and nervous system.

In cases of chronic pain, it is not uncommon for patients to react excessively to light touches or movements. This phenomenon arises from pain sensitization.

How does pain sensitization occur?

Pain sensitization is a complex process that can be divided into two main categories: peripheral and central sensitization.

Peripheral sensitization occurs when pain receptors in muscles and joints become oversensitive. This can be triggered by sustained stress or repeated injuries. Under these conditions, pain mediators such as substance P, glutamate, and other chemicals are released, making pain receptors more sensitive. This leads to increased irritability and a lowered pain threshold, resulting in even light touches or movements being perceived as painful.

Central sensitization, on the other hand, refers to an enhanced response of the central nervous system to pain signals sent from the body. This can be caused by increased excitation of neurons in the spinal cord and brain or by reduced pain inhibition. Under these conditions, pain signals can be perceived as more intense and prolonged, even if the original injury has healed.

Each instrument presents specific challenges and reacts with individual problem areas. For example, trumpet players may be susceptible to temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), jaw, and facial pain due to repeated strain on the facial muscles and temporomandibular joint.

Positive strategies for pain management

Despite these challenges, musicians can develop positive strategies for pain management:

• Mindfulness and body awareness: By developing an awareness of their own physical sensations, musicians can recognize signs of overexertion early and respond accordingly. Through practices such as yoga, meditation, or manual techniques, they can develop better body awareness.

• Adaptation of playing technique and ergonomics: Optimizing playing technique and using ergonomically adapted instruments (straps, chinrests, thumb rests, etc.) can help reduce unnecessary stress on muscles and joints.

• Regeneration and breaks: Regular breaks and periods of rest are crucial to give the body time to regenerate and avoid overexertion.

By developing an understanding of the mechanisms of pain sensitization and implementing proactive strategies for prevention and management, musicians can protect their health and improve their musical performance. This allows them to continue making music with passion and joy, fully realizing their creative potential.