Neck Pains from Playing Piano

**jmattbassplaya** · #1 07-22-2010, 12:02 AM

So today I picked up piano as an instrument and have started literally from square one. Anyways, I was going through a beginners exercise book and was making what I'd consider good progress, but when I got up from the bench to take a break I instantly found myself with a huge pain in my neck. I don't know how I got it but it's already been an hour since I got up and it's still there. I also remember when I first tried to pick up piano when I was 3 I had the same problem (and it was actually the reason I gave up on it then). I'm sitting with my back straight up, my arms are bent at about a 90 degree angle, and my head is maybe only slightly crooked down... and considering I hit this pose basically any time I'm sitting down and never have a problem I can't figure out what's going on

Any advice or ideas on what I'm doing wrong?

williamk · #2 07-22-2010, 12:04 AM

back straight is good, but your shoulders need to be completely relaxed, as well as your arms. if you're not relaxed your muscles will get tense and blah blah.

**jmattbassplaya** · #3 07-22-2010, 12:22 AM

I'm probably not relaxed since I'm only just starting out and because some of the motions are weird and require me to really focus on some muscle groups.

paulygonemad · #4 07-22-2010, 12:22 AM

I agree with williamk. If you spend a ton of time practicing, which rules, you need to be sure to relax those shoulders. Stretch out as well, it helps me.

**jmattbassplaya** · #5 07-22-2010, 09:46 AM

Thanks guys/bump for a few more opinions.

Zooberwerx · #6 07-22-2010, 09:57 AM

Comfort Strapp...or put it back on the floor where it belongs. Well, you did say you "picked up" the piano.

Riis

N.F.A. · #7 07-22-2010, 10:03 AM

Licensed massage therapist here... Do some stretches and get a good medical type massage if you can swing the cash. PM me if you want some stretching suggestions. If you want to really see what position your body is in, have someone take a picture of you playing. You will probably be surprised. When I used to work at a chiropractor's office, I would have my carpal tunnel clients do this on computer and you would be amazed at the contortions people put their bodies through.

Stumbo · #8 07-23-2010, 02:10 AM

A good massager will help relieve muscle tension.