In marching band, most conductors require flutists to have their flute parallel to the ground. This may be harmful to the flutist. The elbows are brought up an angle that may cut off circulation to the arms over time. Excessive playing at a 90-degree angle to the ground will eventually create pain.
When performing, either standing or sitting, the flutist should drop the flute to where it feels comfortable. However, if the flutist drops his flute too much, greater than about thirty degrees, it will create tension in the shoulders and neck.
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This section is part of an article that can be found here: Arm Pain while playing the Flute.