I am a BAPAM Registered Practitioner and keen amateur musician playing the clarinet and bassoon and have developed a great interest in assessing and treating injuries and playing-related musculo-skeletal disorders affecting musicians.
Treating a professional or an amateur musician is no different to treating a keen sports person. The tendinopathies, repetitive strain injuries and muscle imbalance syndromes are very similar in both.
Incorrect posture, non-ergonomic technique, excessive force, overuse, stress, and insufficient rest can contribute to acute and chronic injuries that cause pain and symptoms that can interfere with your musical career. These problems are avoidable with the correct management of your practice and playing routine. Good warm ups, posture, instrument set up and time management can all help to avoid injury.
Consultations will involve a clinical examination to determine the cause of the complaint. It is very helpful if you can bring your instrument along and wear appropriate clothing so I can see how you play and if your technique might be contributing to your problem. This may include taking photographs or video to see more clearly if your symptoms are posture related or if your instrument could be adapted in some way to relieve a stress on a certain joint or muscle.
Some common musician injuries include:
- Acute injuries affecting muscles and tendons.
- Overuse injuries.
- Neck and back pain.
- Muscle imbalance problems and movement dysfunction.
- Nerve entrapment syndromes.
- Focal dystonia or musician’s cramp
- Playing posture.
- Ergonomics of playing an instrument.
I work from my treatment room in Cuffley, Hertfordshire, or home visits can be arranged locally if required.
A regular assessment and treatment session will last 45-60 mins and will cost £40
Longer assessments or treatment sessions can be arranged if required.
Home visits start from £50 depending on location
I am a BAPAM Registered Practitioner and offer reduced rates for BAPAM members.
For further information or to book an appointment
Contact me on 01707 874501
Email: louise@cuffleyphysio.co.uk
You may be able to claim the cost of treatment through your private health insurance eg. BUPA, AXA/PPP, Aviva etc. You will need a referral from your GP or Specialist to claim through insurance. If you are paying for your treatment yourself, no referral is needed.
