Frequency-Dependent Effects of Mobilization-Based Exercise on Dynamic Postural Control in Orchestra Musicians: An Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial

Overview

Orchestra musicians are exposed to prolonged asymmetric postures and repetitive upper-quarter loading that may affect postural control. This exploratory randomized controlled trial examined whether a four-week mobilization-based exercise program, delivered once or twice weekly, was associated with changes in static sensory-dependent balance and dynamic voluntary weight-shifting control.

Posture is an important biomechanical concept that refers to the alignment of an individual's body segments against gravity in static or dynamic conditions. Postural control and balance are of great importance for individuals to perform daily living activities safely and effectively. Impairments in postural stability may lead to loss of balance, decreased movement efficiency, and mechanical loading on the musculoskeletal system, thereby predisposing individuals to problems such as pain and restricted movement. These negative outcomes become more pronounced particularly in groups whose professional performance largely depends on the precise and controlled use of the body. Although there are various studies in the literature examining the effects of exercise programs aimed at preventing and correcting postural disorders, experimental studies investigating the effects of such interventions on postural control, particularly among orchestra musicians and in relation to different application frequencies, remain quite limited. In this context, the present study aims to examine the effects of mobilization-based exercises and different application frequencies on postural control in individuals participating in an orchestra. The study group consists of a total of 23 musicians who are flute and string instrument students enrolled in the orchestra-chamber music course. The participants were divided into three groups: a control group (n = 7), Experimental Group 1 (n = 8), and Experimental Group 2 (n = 8). The research process will be carried out in four stages: pre-test, exercise intervention, acute test, and post-test. In the study, the Virtual Reality-Based Static Posturography System (StaticVR Virtualis) will be used to assess postural control. It is hypothesized that the level of postural control will improve significantly over time in the experimental groups receiving mobilization-based exercises.