Short- and long-term effects of musculoskeletal health education: evidence from the performing arts students

Abstract

Background: Performing arts students (i.e., musicians), face elevated risks of performance-related musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged exposure to static postures, repetitive movements, and lack of ergonomic education. While the benefits of musculoskeletal health education are established in sports, its application and long-term effects in performing arts education remain underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate both short- and long-term effects of musculoskeletal health education on dynamic spine function among female music students. Methods: Forty-four female music students from the Academy of Arts in Banská Bystrica participated in a non-randomized controlled study. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 28), which received 8-week musculoskeletal health education (2x/week/45 min), and a control group (n = 16), which received no intervention. The education included theoretical and practical components focused on postural awareness and dynamic spine function. Spine mobility was assessed using standardized methods common in medical and physical therapy practice at three time points: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric Wilcoxon and Mann–Whitney tests, with significance set at p