Piano, organ, synthesizers and electronic keyboards

Playing a keyboard instrument mimics a similar posture as typing. The forward and downward position of the head along with rounded shoulders to look at the keys and hands promotes major postural imbalance of the neck. A condition known as thoracic outlet syndrome can develop from chronic compression of the nerves and blood vessels that pass between the muscles in the neck, shoulder and rib cage. 

In addition, the players tendency to bend the wrists and curl the fingers while keeping the hand/finger joints flat places excessive strain on the wrist and finger muscles of the forearm causing repetitive strain and tendonitis pain of the fingers, wrists and elbows. 

The repeated use of the thumb kept in a position under the hand strains the thumb muscles which extend and binds the finger extensor muscles across the back of the hand.  Prolonged co-contraction of the muscles that turn and move the arms up and down can lead to nerve entrapment syndromes. Muscle spasms and cramps are also common.

Helping restore the muscular imbalances, improve mobility, posture and improve neuromuscular pathways will resolve  chronic pain and injuries for the key musician.