Need help to rebuild lost skills...with thanks.

Based on recovery from a knee and other injuries to me or family members, have you been treated by an occupational therapist or doctor that is familiar with your conditions?

How about playing piano or synth bass?

Good luck!

 

+1 for consulting an occupational therapist. However, as the proud father of a daughter soon to graduate with a degree in OT, I have learned that OT is not a jack-of-all trades profession. You need one that has specialized in the type of problems you are having. You are more likely to find such an OT in an urban area large enough to support such a specialty. Other than that, I can say that Voltaren gel has helped the arthritic pain I get in my left thumb joint. I also sometimes get tingling in my right fingers, and careful attention to strap length has helped this somewhat. I also take a glucosamine supplement which keeps away "trigger finger". Hope this helps.

 

Have you tried cold pacs?

 

This has more to do with running but the same thing applies.

After I get injured and have to start from the beginning, I appreciate what I accomplished that day and not what dwell on what I used to do before the injury.

 

I'm no doctor, but I'd say pay special attention to your tension. Make sure you put very little strength into playing, and stay very relaxed. This will be difficult at first, but can help prevent injury, especially on a long scale instrument. The bass doesn't require much force to play, as long as your technique is efficient. Also, try to use your large muscle groups - back/lats, arms before wrists and fingers.

Good luck!

 

I've had to move to short- scale basses recently due to pain in my fretting hand.
33" scale is too much of a reach now, I have small hands to start with.
Really enjoying the move though. Short-scale basses are a lot of fun.
And after a 20 year break from playing bass, this guy helped a lot:
Scott's Bass Lessons

 

I really liked your post and your attitude ... I'd really like to don the same and say goodbye to all the f.....ing profit oriented companies which I have dedicated a good part of my life to since 17 years ago ....

 

I know you don't "do" instructional books but do you do lessons? Some good, ole fashioned knee-to-knee lessons with a pro can be a great way to clean up your technique. Bear in mind, the same concept as books applies to lessons. You only get new concepts at lessons, you only actually learn something when you apply it to your own playing.

 

Find a good teacher.
Pain, ice packs.
Stiffness & discomfort, hot packs.