Prevention of cervical and mandibular dysfunction in wind musicians: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives. Playing a wind instrument requires activation of the orofacial musculature. There is a relationship between the temporomandibular joint, the cervical musculature and the posture of the head. Few musicians report receiving specific information about oral health related to instrumental practice. This study aimed to analyse the effects of a preventive exercise programme on posture, range of motion, myofascial trigger points, muscle activation and craniocervical pain in wind players. Methods. Participants were university woodwind and brass performance students. The experimental group (14 females and 15 males aged 21.4 ± 1.7 years) performed an exercise programme aimed at improving the mobility and musculature of the cervical spine and temporomandibular joint. The control group (11 females and 9 males aged 23.7 ± 4.9 years) received no intervention. Both groups underwent a physical assessment and questionnaire before and after the 12-week intervention. Results. The experimental group experienced increased sagittal head angle and cervical flexion-extension mobility and decreased their cervical pain and trapezius activation at rest. In addition, the prevalence of pain in the last month as well as neck pain decreased. Conclusions. With the implementation of a specific exercise programme, wind players improved their cervical mobility, with less pain and more relaxed upper trapezius muscles in rest.