Rehabilitation of Musical Injuries

Published Date: 25th September 2025

Publication Authors: Iyengar. KP

Chapter Abstract

This document provides a comprehensive overview of musical injury rehabilitation, focusing on vocal injuries in singers and musculoskeletal disorders in instrumentalists. Vocal injuries, including nodules, polyps, Reinke’s oedema, muscle tension dysphonia, and spasmodic dysphonia, result from phonotrauma or neurological factors and present with hoarseness, voice fatigue, and reduced range. Diagnosis involves laryngoscopy, stroboscopy, and acoustic assessments, with rehabilitation emphasising voice rest, speech-language pathology interventions, and in severe cases, medical or surgical treatment. For instrumentalists, playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) such as tendinopathies, nerve entrapment, and focal dystonia arise from repetitive strain across plucking, bowing, and blowing instruments. Rehabilitation incorporates rest, physical therapy, ergonomic adjustments, and gradual return-to-play protocols. Preventive strategies, including proper technique, posture correction, and fitness, are critical for both singers and instrumentalists. Supported by otolaryngology and performing arts medicine literature, this document underscores the efficacy of multidisciplinary, evidence-based approaches to restore function and prevent recurrence in musicians.

Iyengar, K.P.; Et al. (2025). Rehabilitation of Musical Injuries. In: Bhamidipaty, K.D.P.; Botchu, R.; Bhamidipaty, V. (Ed). Injuries in Musicians - Imaging and Management. New York: Springer. pp.137-145.