In part, music making is risky because it is a repetitive activity. Strumming and plucking strings, beating drums and striking or even stroking piano keys all impact on the musculoskeletal system. Add an awkward hand or body position to playing the instrument and the risk level soars. Some instruments also require force, compounding the potential damage to the body. Then there is the slouch. The type or design of the instrument can force it on the performer. But sometimes it’s the performer’s style. Either way, it increases the risk.

Fame is no protection. Referring to an article in London’s Mirror newspaper, the April 30, 2004, issue of Ergonomics Today™ reported that Willy Nelson and Ringo Starr had undergone surgery to correct MSDs that were blamed on their playing. MSDs also troubled Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt and guitarist Richard Thompson, according to The Mirror. Folk-guitarist Thompson copes with his pain by icing his arm before shows.

If the new “Tomcat” made by Gary Kramer Guitars lessens the risk, it will merit ergonomic laurels. One in the American Delta Wing guitar series, according to the company’s press release, the “Tomcat” steps away from traditional body shapes. It states, “The new bold dynamic contours were carefully developed for their maximum ergonomics.”

The Kramer company is not the only one to adopt an ergonomic approach to reducing risk – fixing problems with the instrument rather than fixing the musician. Referring to a story in The Kansas City Star, the August 24, 2004, issue of Ergonomics Today™ reported that Little Guitar Works produces a custom-crafted bass with a twisted neck to keep the musician’s wrist in a more natural position while playing. For pianists, Bluthner makes a grand piano that allows the left-handed musician to play the lead with his or her dominant hand. Tradition often rules out modifications to the instrument, but it is possible to reduce the risk of MSDs by teaching musicians safer playing techniques.

The August 24 article quotes experts who suggest that musicians commonly reject modified instruments and resist modifying their techniques because they worry the changes won’t look cool. The Tomcat and other ergonomically-altered instruments on the market represent a chance for them to be pain free, which is really cool.

Sources: Gary Kramer Guitars; Ergonomics Today™; The Mirror; The Kansas City Star