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Good idea to buy a bass?

L

LotusCarsLtd52

Dec 6, 2009
398
1
#1
I have an RSI that I'm getting physical therapy for. My therapist has stated that I can still play bass and that my condition has gotten better (although I still have a way to go until I'm fully healed).

Despite this I'm skeptical about my future as a bassist. At the same time I have the opportunity to get a bass that I've been looking at for awhile and I'm debating if I should or not. I'm probably being too pessimistic about my condition since I figured I would be told I can never play again despite the fact that that didn't happen.

Thoughts?
 
#3
Normally, I would say it's always a good idea to buy a bass. However, due to your situation, I say wait for a bit. I don't know what your insurance is like, but with medical bills and recovery time, it would probably be best to hold off on that for now.

Hope you have a speedy recovery!!
 
#4
bassist4dalord said:
Normally, I would say it's always a good idea to buy a bass. However, due to your situation, I say wait for a bit. I don't know what your insurance is like, but with medical bills and recovery time, it would probably be best to hold off on that for now.

Hope you have a speedy recovery!!
Click to expand...

Understandable. The therapy is covered already so there's no cost to me at all. One thing I was considering was buying a small keyboard synth and using that for now (one because I like synths and two to allow me another musical outlet for now. I also want to add to my sonic capabilities).
 
#5
I've had pretty bad RSI in the past. I'm a computer guy, sound engineer and bassist. I once had it so bad I had a cyst on the back of my left wrist.
A couple things I have found over the years I would like to pass on to you, or anyone else in the same boat.
A) keep you wallet in your front pocket. Sitting on a half inch piece of leather puts your spine out of whack .
B) Acupuncture. It completely works. 100% better than any of the pills, splints or whathaveyou my western practitioner had me on.
C) Moderate the alcohol and the coffee. Both of these are diuretics (dehydrate you) and are not so great for your joints. If you see a real acupuncturist they will give you some pretty strict advice on diet above and beyond that!
D) Computer Ergonomics! Change up your computer setup. Don't always use a the same 2 button mouse. Switch to a different mouse, or a trackball every couple months or weeks. If you use a notebook, get a wireless mouse! Those trackpads are terrible for long term work. DO NOT use the little riser feet on your keyboard. These increase the angle of the keyboard and make your wrists bend at more of a severe angle than they need to. It is better to leave the keyboard flat or even have it tilted back.
E) take breaks, stretch your arms and legs. get some moderate exercise like biking or hiking.

RSI is pretty frightening if you are a musician. I play, well, everything. Though I am primarily a bassist. I would be pretty crushed if I could not play music anymore.
Just putting it out there that it's totally not the end and you can get through RSI and back to playing music.
 

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