are there any Health side effect for people who play flute?

legolas · Post by **legolas** » Sun Nov 26, 2006 5:15 am

Hi
Thank you for reading my post
is there any side effect that can put some health on risk because of playing flute?

does it bring problem for hearth and breathing system?

thanks

suckmykiss · Post by **suckmykiss** » Sun Nov 26, 2006 5:53 am

Hmm I should think not? A common misconception is that wind instruments give rise to breathing problems, but for me the effect is opposite -- helps me breathe properly esp when running long distances!

Though my right ear seems to be slightly deaf... [But that's cos I play too loud =B ]

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Sun Nov 26, 2006 11:23 am

there are some health risks involved, but not if you are using proper technique and hand positioning. If you are using poor hand posture, and technique then you could start getting symptoms of tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and develope arthritis early in your life.

However, if you do use proper technique, then dont worry. These conditions are only caused by poor hand positioning while playing your instrument.

There arent really any risks to your heart, and the only risks to your lungs are if you dont swab the interior of you flute, mold is created, and you breathe it in. However, this is unusual, and completely avoidable if you take care of your instrument.

squints · Post by **squints** » Fri Dec 01, 2006 10:29 pm

I wouldn't look too much into health effects in anything anymore. Or at least be sure it’s from a good source. A lot of things can be shown as beneficial. I have even read a report saying that looking at attractive women is healthy for men. The equivalent of 30 minuets of exercise. If it comes from a good source read it over but don’t be concerned.

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Sat Dec 02, 2006 8:55 am

if you go to http://www.larrykrantz.com there is a whole section about health issues associated with the flute. There are articles that discuss almost everything imaginable about damage and ways you can solve any problems you have/ will have.

ick27 · Post by **ick27** » Sat Dec 02, 2006 10:46 am

I often find playing flute to be quite invigorating. If I play when I'm a little sick, I usually feel better even. It's also a great when I'm feeling tired due to being inside all day, travel, etc. Perhaps this is mostly related to breathing, but for whatever reason, flute does seem to be good for your health. Flute related injuries come when you experience discomfort or pain but continue to play. If you experience any discomfort while playing, take a break and try to find out what you're doing wrong. The flute can be played comfortably for long periods of time.

remnantpark · Post by **remnantpark** » Sat Dec 02, 2006 7:19 pm

Well, I agree. You /can/ get tendonitis (eeek! this happens whenever you overwork the muscles...Don't do it.), carpel tunnel syndrome what not relating to arms to hands.
The least pain/injury I got from the flute is some dizziness or numbness in my left hand. Or just a little calyst (however you spell it) in my left index finger or right pinky. The flute seems to (like what ick27) be /better/ for your mind and body (in my opinion). It helps you gain more confidence and soothes the mind.

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Sat Dec 02, 2006 7:38 pm

I completely agree with Fluteguy. Under normal circumstances, and using proper technique, you should have nothing to worry about health wise. There are some problems that are associated with flute playing, as it is not at all a natural position to hold your body in, but with care most of these issues can be avoided.

Twilight91 · Post by **Twilight91** » Sun Dec 03, 2006 5:14 pm

I have asthma and have found that playing flute actually helps my breathing. It gives me better endurance for marching and running and all of that jazz. It's also nice to play when I'm feeling under the weather. Although, if you are sick, it's a good idea to clean the head joint so the germs don't make a home there.

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Sun Dec 03, 2006 7:29 pm

See, I know from expieriance about health issues. I had poor technique in my right hand [poor positioning] and I used to have chronic pain in that hand [half an hour worth of playing would cause about 5 hours of pain....]. I almost had to quit because it hurt so bad. But, I told my tutor at the time, and she fixed my technique immediately. She said it would make or break my career as a performer. It was evident that I was in early/ moderate stages of tendonitis/ Carpal Tunnel. So, she took me back to the basics [whole notes, and half notes] and had me COMPLETELY retrain my hand technique. Now, I have the most solid technique in my studio, and NO pain whatsoever.

I am so glad I didnt have to quit. I would have been devastated.

drumajorchick · Post by **drumajorchick** » Fri Dec 08, 2006 10:39 am

Being asthamatic can also be at risk too. I know this because I am. During marching expecially was a little hard. But worth while