Double Bass Inflamed Finger

[Physcie]

So, I picked up an upright bass and joined a bluegrass band about a month ago. For the last month I've been playing in 1-2 hour sessions about every other day. This past Saturday night I had my first gig with the band where we played four 45 minute sets. Just calluses and when I woke up Sunday my right hand index finger was swollen. Sunday night I put some ice on it and I've been taking anti-inflamitory stuff since then. I don't have full range of motion of the finger and it hurts a little when stretched to it farthest point. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance.

As far as plucking, I've been doing a little slapping, but mostly using two fingers to pluck with the side of my index finger. Like I've seen some jazz bass players do.

 

[Paul Warburton]

I know how you feel.
I'm starting back to a career of more than 50 years of jazz bass playing after a two year lay-off.
All I can offer is to suck it up and don't over do it. Rest your fingers and your body in between and check with your Doc if you think something just isn't right.
Hang in!
( Oh, how i've come to hate that suggestion as I crawl into bed late at night. )

 

[Gufenov]

Yeah, but what do you do when the finger no longer fits your nostril?

 

[Paul Warburton]

Yeah, but what do you do when the finger no longer fits your nostril?

Don't tempt me to tell you, Cliff...

 

[boombloom]

Ooh! You're just getting to the good part!

 

[BluesHonky]

Sup Cats ! Newbie Here, Im a 53 yr old guitar player who has been playin alot of electric bass lately for some southern rockers... doin my practicin on an Acoustic Tak,, and its been gettin my wrist and fingers sore... I have always had mild arthritis..... I have controlled mine for yrs with Hi doses of EFA's Fish oil capsules.... Plus they are good for the heart... It takes alot of heart to play bass... Save the pain relievers for the gigs and back off enough not to hurt yourself.... This is a great site... I want a double bass so bad... but I know my hands wont hold up to it... It's a strange thing I have never seen my wife react in such a way too.. We have looked at a few together and I can see the WOW in her face... Never in 26 yrs of marriage have I seen her show interest in my instruments...