Instrumentalists and specifically percussionists have been found to develop musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to the nature of their work. This study aimed to assess the MSD risk factors associated with playing the steel pan, which was invented in Trinidad and Tobago in the 20th century. A sample of 13 pannists and 13 non-pannists completed a modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and data analysis included multiple correlations, Student's t test, the Moore-Garg strain index and calculation of compressive force at the L5/S1 vertebrae. The prevalence of pain was found to be greater among the pannists; a strain index of 22.78 was calculated and the compressive force was determined to be 4507.8 N, which indicated that pannists have a high risk of developing MSDs of the upper limbs and lower back. The risk factors identified for the development of MSDs were similar to those of previous studies.
Keywords: Nordic questionnaire; Trinidad and Tobago; ergonomics; instrumentalist; musculoskeletal disorders; pannist; steel pan.