i posted a similar thread to this a few months ago. for the past maybe 3 or so months i've been having trouble playing with my fingers. i've noticed i am not as fast and not as accurate with my fingers as i used to be (keep in mind i'm only 15 and i've been playing for over 2 years). i've been playing with a pick for a while now but today i decided to try the fingerstyle again, and my arm/wrist started to get tired very quickly and then felt numb and painful. i'm probably going to get an x-ray for it this week but does anyone know what this might be? thanks in advance.
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
arm pain from bass playing?
- Thread starter slipkorn917
- Start date
i practice & play my bass everyday and i havent done anything differently in the past 2 years but just recently starting to get this feeling in my wrist/arm. and it only happens when i play with my fingers.
Its hard to diagnose anything over the internet, however I CAN tell you I've had similar issues throughout my career. I have proper technique, my instruments are well balanced, and I strive to never overwork my my muscles. For me personally, muscle strains and pinched nerves are very common when you consider loading/unloading equipment, hours of playing, and even day to day tasks at home and at work. Focus on stretching your arms and wrists throughout the day especially before rehearsals and gigs. I know that being musicians, we tend to think, "Oh No! My passion...my career...what will I do?" From what you describe, you should be ok. Just take it easy on the fingers for awhile. Don't let yourself get wrapped up in speed because you will probably do more harm to your muscles/tendons then help your technique. Good luck sir!
you may be pressing your wrist against the bass with a lot of force and not be aware of it. check out any beginning complete bass method book. Bass guitar for Dummies p29 shows a picture with a description for the hand placement for finger style playing. Hope this helps
This is a good idea. Dont postpone it. Dont play through the pain, hoping it will go away. When you get the medical all clear, check both your picking and finger style techniques. For pick tips google "Carol Kaye pick method", for finger style search You Tube for "Todd Johnson Floating Thumb".
