Knuckle locking up on middle (plucking) finger

Wooten Wannabe · #1 03-09-2011, 02:27 PM

Did a search but didn't find much. Hoping someone can help.

The knuckle locks up in my middle finger on my plucking hand while playing. This started two weeks ago and hasn't gotten any better. The knuckle isn't sore to the touch but is a little stiffer than normal.

I'm fifty years old and expect some of this type of thing and certainly not willing or ready to hang things up. I can play through the pain and the knuckle doesn't stay locked. As a result I miss a few notes because of this. Hate that!

Anyway - looking for a little help/advise.

Thanks in advance!

My name is Mudd · #2 03-09-2011, 02:50 PM

Have you injured (as in, broken) this finger in the past? A friend had a similar problem, and it turned out to be caused by a bone chip from an earlier break that would get inside the knuckle joint and jam it up.

tat2jim · #3 03-09-2011, 03:33 PM

Start using a pic.

check out this exercise:
YouTube - Finger Joint Rotation Exercise

BlacksHole · #4 03-10-2011, 01:49 PM

If it is one particular finger and it feels like it catches, then it is trigger finger and a cortisone shot should help. If several or all are all locking up then you are probably somewhat dehydrated. Drink plenty of water when gigging.

Wooten Wannabe · #5 03-10-2011, 02:47 PM

No direct injuries. Just the one knuckle at present that's affected. Already drink a ton of water. My fear is that it is Arthritis which runs in the family.

About 5 years ago I had surgery on my right hand due to Dupuytren's contracture. I don't have the same movemanet as I used to but it never affected my knuckle. Maybe could be a result of the disease/surgery?

I've been playing as well as I ever have and having the most fun as well. Hope this thing gets better soon.

Craig

fdeck · #6 03-10-2011, 05:08 PM

Check over on the DB forum for TB'er drurb, who described a similar affliction.

Do you have access to health care? This may require the advice of a doctor.

Jazz Ad · #7 03-10-2011, 05:15 PM

You can try playing with straight fingers instead of curved. It works for some people. I do it from time to time.

254 stringer · #8 03-10-2011, 05:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tat2jim

Start using a pic.

check out this exercise:
YouTube - Finger Joint Rotation Exercise

I might try this cause my fingers get stiff from time to time but I'm trying to figure out if it is a joke or not. I was cracking up cause that chick was trying to keep a straight face when that dude was talking about rolling joints.

My name is Mudd · #9 03-10-2011, 05:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 254 stringer

I was cracking up cause that chick was trying to keep a straight face when that dude was talking about rolling joints.

Oh good...it wasn't just me who caught that bit.

rtslinger · #10 03-11-2011, 05:20 AM

I have not heard of that, but I would suggest squeezing a rubber ball with that hand or both wouldn't hurt. I use this technique to keep my joints moving and maintain my speed
53 years young and still rocking the bass

tat2jim · #11 03-11-2011, 05:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 254 stringer

I might try this cause my fingers get stiff from time to time but I'm trying to figure out if it is a joke or not. I was cracking up cause that chick was trying to keep a straight face when that dude was talking about rolling joints.

I play a massage therapist on TV.

Go on Youtube and look for flexability exercises.