Foot and Ankle Non-traumatic Disorders: Indian Classical Musicians to Take Note
摘要
Indian classical musicians often spend prolonged hours in static and repetitive postures, particularly in cross-legged sitting positions during practice and performance. Such long-term occupational demands predispose them to a variety of musculoskeletal problems involving the lower limbs, especially the foot and ankle, which serve as the final point of weight transmission and balance. Non-traumatic disorders in this region may present as chronic pain, deformities, enthesopathies, nerve compressions, and vascular compromise. These conditions are often under-recognized, as the artistic demands and cultural context of performance tend to overshadow the physical strain on the musician’s body. Early identification and management are crucial in preventing long-term disability and ensuring career longevity. This chapter highlights the common foot and ankle disorders seen in Indian classical musicians, their biomechanical basis, clinical features, radiological correlates, and possible preventive and rehabilitative strategies. By raising awareness among performers, teachers, and healthcare professionals, this work aims to integrate ergonomics and musculoskeletal health into the training and practice of Indian classical music.