Drums, timpani, cymbals, xylophone, marimba, tabla and taiko

Using drum sticks, mallets and bare hands to hit percussion instruments results in rapid pulling back of the wrists and fingers at impact. The impulse vibration caused by striking the instrument is transmitted up the hand and arm and contributes to repetitive strain injuries of the muscle-tendon units and the peripheral nerves. Biomechanical factors, such as the amount of force used, the repetitive nature of the playing and static load placed on the muscles can add to the injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome and nodule formation in tendon sheaths are common in this group of musicians. Complaints of pain traveling from their hands, elbows, shoulders, neck and middle to lower back are not surprising.

Drummers need to be both strong and supple requiring good dynamic mobility due to the large footprint of space the instrument occupies. In the lower extremity, tibialis and patella (shin and knee) tendon pain is common such as shin splints through repetitive use of the kick drum and high hats.

There is no question that the drummer is a workhorse with huge physical demands on the body. This type of musician benefits greatly from types of therapy that encourage mobility and calm the whole system through postural re-education and training.