ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The present study is part of a project designed to investigate the development of disorders related to the work of orchestra violinists. OBJECTIVE: To describe and analyze the functional disorders of the musculoskeletal systems of violinists from the four orchestras in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. METHOD: Analyses of musculoskeletal system disorders found in violinists from orchestras in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, were completed using a variety of approaches, including Occupational Therapy, Epidemiology and the Social Science methodologies. RESULTS: Participants sustained musculoskeletal disorders despite their common sense belief that musicians are generally healthier than other professional groups. The struggle for a better financial situation forced study participants to work harder, in a variety of work environments, increasing and diversifying their exposure to risk factors. Protective and preventive measures were scarce and in most cases these were only employed after the onset of musculoskeletal disorders. CONCLUSIONS: The use of inadequate strategies and the lack of appropriate options to deal with risk factors contributed to the maintenance of symptoms or the onset of health disorders.
