Performing Arts Medicine Program
The Center for East-West Medicine offers a special program in performing arts medicine for musicians, dancers and actors. Performing artists are subject to stress and overuse conditions, and lifestyle factors can also have a powerful effect on their well being. The Center for East-West Medicine brings the best of both Eastern and Western medicine to help performing artists improve and maintain their health by understanding the stresses and protective factors that affect their health. Participants are encouraged to practice self-care techniques to help them achieve optimum health. --- UCLA Clinic Update March 2006
Patient Testimonial
I was suffering. The pain was so severe. It was impossible to perform under the agony of my symptoms. Medications only gave temporary relief. My doctor at the Center helped me understand what was happening with my body. He performed acupuncture and educated me on how to massage pressure points on my hands, arms, face, and neck. With the treatments and daily self-care, my pain was gone in a few weeks, and I am requiring no medications. Thank you for East-West Medicine.
Renowned Rhythm and Blues Vocalist
[left picture]Dr. Marc Brodsky with Ayo Adeyemi, Master Drummer and Yoruba Ceremonial Leader from Nigeria
Center publications in performing arts medicine:
- Brodsky M. Blues Musicians' Access to Health Care Study. Med Prob Perf Art 1995; 10: 18-23.(PDF file)
- Brodsky M. Kabuki Actors Study. Med Prob Perf Art 2001; 16: 94-8.(PDF file)
- Brodsky M, Hui KK: An innovative patient-centered approach to common playing-related pain conditions in musicians. Med Probl Perform Art 2004; 19:164¨C7.(PDF file)
- Brodsky M. Performing artists and self-care. Med Prob Perf Art 2006; 21(2): 91. (PDF file)
Serving performing artists in the community:
The Center volunteered on-site consultation and treatment services at the Musicares booth at the International Music Products Association Trade Show, known as NAMM in 2004-2006 and at the First Annual Entertainment Industry Summit sponsored by Musicares, Actors Fund, Society of Singers, and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists in 2005.
For more information on performing arts medicine please click http://www.artsmed.org/index.htm