Common Arts-related Health Problems

— repetitive motion conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis;

— respiratory and neurological disorders from poor ventilation and exposure to toxic solvents, pigments, lead-based glazes, silica, metals, and chemicals used in film development;

— dermatitis and other skin conditions from contact with toxic materials;

— acute eye injuries from woodworking and welding.

H Dancers:

— acute injuries including stress fractures in the lower extremities;

— lower extremity musculoskeletal problems;

— osteoporosis and amenorrhea from low body fat;

— foot deformities including bunions.

H Musicians:

— repetitive motion conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis;

— hearing loss;

— upper extremity musculoskeletal problems and dermatitis and other skin conditions from holding instruments;

— secondhand smoke exposure.

H Vocalists:

— vocal chord nodules, polyps, and cysts;

— secondhand smoke exposure;

— stage-fog (dry ice) exposure.

Source: Arts-Medicine Project at the University of Illinois at Chicago Health Sciences Center.