Does a wider strap help with back and shoulder pain while playing?

[Maxi Funkl]

Bass Guitar Straps
I use these

 

[JimmyM]

It can, but for me, the only real solution was lightening up on the weight of my bass AND using a wide strap. Even the most comfy strap on a 10-11 lb bass is holding the weight on your shoulder.

 

[Jazzdogg]

A wider strap can definitely help with shoulder pain (as per the thread title) by spreading the weight over a wider area of the shoulder rather than digging into your shoulder in a narrow spot. However, I don't see why or how it should help with back pain: As @turf3 says, it won't make the bass weigh any less. I think the most important way to avoid back pain -- to the degree it can be avoided at all -- is more a matter of posture than anything else.

I agree completely. I use a Comfort Strapp at a length that helps minimize bad ergonomics, and I am very conscious of my posture, and how I am distributing my weight through my joints to my feet. Orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist helped, too.

 

[ELG60]

I think that each player's requirements will be different depending upon build, physical condition, instrument weight, age, condition, etc.

For me, I find that a 3 1/2" wide padded leather strap to be ideal . . . Wide enough to spread the weight of a typical FSO, and not so wide as to have no lateral flexibility or to bite into my neck. Here are several which I've either had made, or bought off the rack:

Edit: regular weight training helps if one is physically able.

2nd edit: the Fender Boxer 555 has a 4" strap that I find to be just a little wide.

 

[fdeck]

Switching to short scale helped me. I probably won't go back.

 

[DonaldR]

I tried a 4" wide air-pocket strap. It helped a bit, but not that much.

Maybe try to inflate it with helium

 

[Rootbeer]

I use a Slider strap. It's x shaped and divides the weight between both shoulders. I had to get used to taking it off and putting it on quickly between sets but it helps me a lot.

 

[steveinohio]

I have spinal stenosis. That can make weight an issue sometimes.

I use a Comfort Strap and an Ernie Ball neoprene strap. Between the two I can usually find one that will be comfortable for a set.

The Comfort Strap is a little short for some basses. It the longest one they make but it’s still not overly long. That’s really my only issue with it.

The Ernie Ball is stretchy and bouncy. That helps it absorb and distribute some of the weight better. It is a little strange at first to get use to but it didn’t take long.

I really would like a cross between the two but haven’t been able to find one.

 

[Aidenn7]

I made my own strap.. just straight 4" leather and it helps

 

[funkmaster p]

I have had 3 shoulder surgeries and also currently have back problems. A light bass with a skinny vintage-style strap feels better after a 3 hour gig than a 10 lb. plus bass with a wide strap.

 

[Yahboy]

I use Neoprene Mega strap. Has no problem with 9.25kg Jazz bass.

 

[gmarcus]

Try a slinger strap if you can bear to drill a hole in your lower horn. I use flush mount strap locks on the back

 

[Rip Van Dan]

I've been having some back pain when playing bass at a gig. Would an extra wide strap with padding help?

Yes!

I figured that out at the ripe old age of 21 when I was playing a Jazz Bass in a nightclub group playing 5-nights a week, 50-weeks a year. I got a 3½" wide strap and it made a huge difference. Then all my touring gear was stolen in 1976. In 1985 I finally found another Jazz with a neck that felt like my '65 and I bought it. First thing I bought for it was a 3½" wide, leather strap in white to match the rest of my bass. Padding would be even better.

Buff colored wide leather strap in 1971.

3½' wide, white leather strap on my '82 Jazz:

 

[Paul M]

Good chance it will end up digging into the side of your neck.

Riis

This is true. For a heavy bass, I use a wide flexible cloth strap.

 

[climber]

I’ve used one of these for 7-8 years. It made a significant difference. But working out helps too.

This helps by distributing the weight between both shoulders. I use it for my 10+ pound 6er.

 

[Nuage420]

+1 to many possible causes (and responses) for back pain
+1 consult professionals.

For me the greatest weapon against my back pain has been exercise.
Run, Squat, Deadlift. You'll still be sore but for better reasons.

I am a major advocate for fitness. I ruck anywhere from 12-30 miles at a time with 50-75lbs on my back a few times a month. I go HAM with the iron, I run, I rollerblade, I mountain bike, I fight, I train for battle and train others for battle. I won't keep a bass that's over 9.25 and the one I reach for the most is 7.1 lbs with a 3" leather strap.
Yes, if you workout eat well and avoid alcohol you'll be in better shape to handle your instrument, but lighter is more better.

 

[Auspuff]

I've been having some back pain when playing bass at a gig. Would an extra wide strap with padding help?

Yes.

 

[Pontiac Thrasher]

I've been having some back pain when playing bass at a gig. Would an extra wide strap with padding help?

Yes unless your posture is also a problem

 

[Mister Magic]

Is sitting or leaning on a stool an option? I find it more comfortable than standing regardless of back pain.

I am fortunate to not have back pain in any capacity but still prefer sitting/leaning on a stool when playing live. I have a Roc-N-Soc drum throne that I originally purchased for drums then later used for keyboard gigs then later used for bass gigs. It was built with high-density cushioning and is very comfortable.

If i did have back/neck/shoulder pain at live gigs, there is no way I would not use a stool or something similar. I alternate between standing and sitting/leaning at gigs. I have never been into image so the optics would never bother me.

 

[Manticore]

Everyone is different, and each will have a unique experience. My daily driven is a 14.5 pound sixer. It is very well balanced. With a 4.5" (12cm). padded strap I really don't notice the weight, even during the longest gigs. For reference, I been around since the Eisenhower administration. I've also found simply standing up straight with weight evenly distributed across both legs helps. YMMV