Neuromuscular control and musculoskeletal injuries in musicians: a critical review

Abstract

Musicians are highly vulnerable to musculoskeletal injuries due to the repetitive and sustained physical demands of playing instruments. While neuromuscular control is crucial in stabilising joints and muscles to prevent such injuries, its role in developing and preventing MSIs has received limited attention. In this review, we synthesise findings from studies examining the impact of neuromuscular control and training interventions on MSIs in musicians. Evidence suggests that proprioceptive training, motor control exercises, and dynamic stability drills can enhance joint stability and reduce injury risk, positively affecting performance outcomes. However, much of the existing research is limited by cross-sectional designs. Future studies should focus on longitudinal approaches to better understand the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying these benefits and explore the practical implications of integrating neuromuscular training into musicians’ routines for long-term physical health and career sustainability.