callousing, blisters and new strings

Step · #1 08-01-2008, 05:00 AM

hey,

recently I bought a new set of strings, ernie ball slinky custom gauge, which are 50 75 90 110, and so far Im loving the tone and feel of the string, specifically the tension, it allows me to play fast and clean

however, the strings hurt my fingers because of the tension and thickness

I got a blood blister, which isnt really that abnormal, but on my left hand my index finger is completely torn, the top layer of skin is gone

my question is: should I continue using these strings, as I will get used to them, or should I dump them as the gauges are too heavy and playing them will always hurt

Deacon_Blues · #2 08-01-2008, 06:04 AM

I've never gotten any blood blisters from playing, but I dislike rough strings very much and if I discover a new set of strings are like that, I change them very quickly (example: Warwick strings).

About callouses - I have very thin callouses, almost non-existent, but I've never felt I needed thicker ones. You wouldn't tell I have any callouses at all just by looking at the fingertips on my both hands and compare them (I hardly ever use the ring finger or pinky on my right hand so you would think there would be a visible difference compared to the left hand, but no...) I feel a slight difference but that's it. Anyway, I don't understand how people succeed in "playing 'til their fingers bleed". Do you slide a lot up and down the neck, press too hard, or what?

Step · #3 08-01-2008, 06:58 AM

yep, lots of slides, bends and generally fast playing

I actually have the same thing as you regarding callousing, I have very little, its building up on top of the blister now, so Ive got my index finger covered now

by the way, now that I think of it, the blood blister was probably caused by furious guitar-like tapping, it hurt

hmm, I guess Ill just try to play a few more weeks, see if the callous builds up, otherwise Ill go for some lighter strings

Demon_Hunter · #4 08-01-2008, 07:08 AM

You can try putting Isopropyl Alcohol (aka rubbing alcohol) on your fingertips after showering, washing hands...etc...and also after playing. Doing that has helped my callouses become stronger.

kenlacam · #5 08-01-2008, 08:55 AM

I'd go with lighter strings, myself, depending on your style. I use the .40-.95 strings, which are ideal for fast running and some slap/pop techniques. It won't be as bass-heavy, but you can adjust your amp to make up the difference. Lighter strings are more flexible for bending, as well.

JustOpenYourMind · #6 08-02-2008, 09:13 AM

I think you might want to check on your technique, it seems you are plucking way too hard. You shouldn't develop blood blisters from playing, I don,t think it's normal.

As for taping, it should be pretty effortless regardless of the strings, maybe your action is too high?

No offense intended though, if you need to play like that to get your sound just continue, I am just suggesting alternatives and giving my oppinion.

CapnSev · #7 08-02-2008, 09:19 AM

Ernie Balls are hurting you huh? I think those are probably one of the smoothest and lowest-tension strings around. I would try playing a bit lighter and letting your amp do more work.

Also if you get a big blister, prick it with a pin and drain it. Then cover it with nu-skin (basically superglue). That will keep the new skin underneath the blister from being soft.

lunker · #8 08-02-2008, 09:21 AM

i'd say you should probably reassess your attack and how hard you're fretting. just my opinion though

MysticMichael · #9 08-02-2008, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kenlacam

I'd go with lighter strings, myself, depending on your style. I use the .40-.95 strings, which are ideal for fast running and some slap/pop techniques. It won't be as bass-heavy, but you can adjust your amp to make up the difference. Lighter strings are more flexible for bending, as well.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JustOpenYourMind

I think you might want to check on your technique, it seems you are plucking way too hard. You shouldn't develop blood blisters from playing, I don,t think it's normal.

As for tapping, it should be pretty effortless regardless of the strings, maybe your action is too high?

No offense intended though, if you need to play like that to get your sound just continue, I am just suggesting alternatives and giving my opinion.

I agree with both of these views. I personally play lighter-gauge strings, and can vouch for how much more flexible and easier to play they are. I also agree that making adjustments at the amp, as well as in your technique, is infinitely preferable to unduly stressing your fingers, hands or wrists.

But if you really like this make & model of string, and really prefer to keep your current technique, there's no reason to discontinue using these strings just because of the blisters. Just take it easy until the blisters heal, and continue playing in moderation thereafter until your callouses build up. Your fingertips will be sore for a few weeks, but they will eventually toughen up, and then you'll be fine...

MM

Step · #10 08-03-2008, 05:18 PM

well, today I played again, as hard as ever, and nothing hurt, I have big callouses on both my fretting and plucking fingers

so the problem is basically gone, though I will try other strings when these run out

thanks

Mr_Sore_Fingerz · #11 08-03-2008, 05:25 PM

ive never gotten blisters from playing before...lol

it depends on what kind of strings you use, but for a while stainless used to kill my fingers and then i just switched to nickel or nickel-plated steel and those didnt hurt too bad. Now i play all stainless with no problems, just try playing smoother strings for a while till ur fingers get used to it =)