I get really cramped when I play bar chords...in my wrist and around the base of my thumb. I have played guitar now for 6 years...and it's getting worse...any idea what it is? and how to take care of it?
Thanks!
2007-01-28 14:30:59 · 6 answers · asked by _0_ 2 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Pain & Pain Management
Sounds like carpaltunnel syndrome, its a form of arthritis check this out: http://www.webmd.com/content/article/78/95624.htm
2007-01-28 14:35:43 · answer #1 · answered by cincyreds626 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most of these suggestions are good. Hydrate, sports drinks, check for carpal tunnel. The other guitar player in my band had carpal tunnel from his work as a carpenter. He had surgery an was able to play a week later (although his doctor didn't like that;-) But another approach is to alter the way you play. I was trained in both classical and traditional styles, and I use trwo different hand positions regularly and a couple others intermittently. The classical method is to put your thumb in the middle of the back of the neck. The folky traditional method is to wrap your whole mitt around the neck and play bass with your thumb. This works with the F chord position and it's derivatives. Since I usually play gigs of two sets - 2 hours each with a 15 minute break, I alternate these methods, which prevents having to keep my hand in the same position all the time. You might also consider another guitar with a different neck width and depth. Anything that changes even subtlely your hand position should help.
2016-03-29 07:19:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This is caused by a repetitive motion like playing cords. To take care of it if you need to go to the doctor, but what I found that works is a plastic bag of frozen peas put around the wrist and thumb. Cold packs also work, but they are not as flexible as peas. Also, you could get braces at the drug store (they are about $10 ea.), but don't wear them all the time, you're trying to not have to use them. I hope yours does not last as long as mine has. I have very little feeling in my hands and no feeling in my wrists (I'm a secretary).
2007-01-28 14:42:59 · answer #3 · answered by Terry Z 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, we are an active musician family.. and two of our members had this problem.. You have to see a doctor.. one cousin has carpoltunel (sorry spelling) syndrome.. and the other had to have surgery. Both are doing better.. the one who did not have surgery.. had to excessive his hands, wrist and arms.. and rest them as well. He has played violin since he was 6 and is now 26..
There is no need to struggle with this.. just see your doctor.
2007-01-28 14:44:14 · answer #4 · answered by Esther J 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes that's carpal tunnel alright. Buy a couple of hand/wrist braces to use when you play. It'll feel much better,
2007-02-01 11:17:37 · answer #5 · answered by Sandi Beach 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like carpal tunnel to me also. They can do surgery for it but I don't much about the procedure. You might need to consult a doctor about it.
2007-01-28 14:46:13 · answer #6 · answered by precious1too 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋