Shoulder pain in guitarists and bassists
Shoulder pain in guitarists and bassists is common and is mainly caused by poor posture, excessive instrument weight, and lack of proper physical preparation. The most common injuries are muscular and tendinous, sometimes aggravated by using unsuitable straps or poor technique. Prevention involves good ergonomics, adequate warm-up, and early professional attention in case of persistent or limiting pain. All this is due to the weight of the instrument, posture, and repetitive effort. These injuries are usually cumulative and stem from muscle or tendon overload caused by playing for long periods or carrying heavy instruments.
Common types of injuries:
- Overload and repetitive effort: The most frequent injury is caused by repeated movements, affecting muscles and tendons and producing pain in the shoulder, neck, and sometimes radiating to the arm. This can develop into tendinitis, especially in the rotator cuff or levator scapulae, which is very common in the shoulder carrying the instrument strap.
- Muscle contractures: Musicians often bear the weight of the instrument (2.5–4.5 kg) directly on one shoulder for long periods, overloading the trapezius, levator scapulae, and other nearby muscles.
- Nerve compression and spine problems: Maintained position and continuous weight may cause spine and nerve disorders, resulting in radiating pain, tingling, and weakness in the upper limbs.
Warning symptoms and aggravating factors:
- Persistent pain in one or both shoulders, which may increase when moving the arm or carrying the instrument.
- Stiffness or limited mobility in the neck and shoulders, sometimes accompanied by clicking, weakness, or numbness.
- Fatigue or pain after playing, especially following long concerts or intense rehearsals.
- Greater risk when using narrow straps, very heavy instruments, or poor posture (strap too low or high, slouched back).
Prevention and tips:
- Use wide and padded straps to better distribute the weight over the shoulder and reduce pressure.
- Warm up and stretch before and after playing, especially shoulders, neck, back, and arms.
- Adjust the instrument height: each musician should seek a position that allows the arm and shoulder to relax.
- Change posture during rehearsals or concerts and avoid keeping the instrument in the same position for too long.
- Strengthen postural muscles to better support the instrument’s weight and prevent injuries.
- If persistent pain occurs, consult a physiotherapist or medical specialist for proper evaluation.
In summary, shoulder pain in guitarists and bassists is common and is usually due to poor posture, excessive weight, and lack of physical preparation. The most frequent injuries are muscular and tendinous, and prevention relies on good ergonomics, warm-up, and early professional care if persistent or limiting pain appears.
