Double Bass Severe pain: Poor posture? Or not enough moving around?

[Foamy]

I play electric bass, not double bass, but I think this is the closest forum for my question.

After about an hour, I start to get some numbness in my thigh. After a few minutes, it turns to sharp pain. The pain gets so bad that I can no longer stand.

I know it has to do something with posture because if I bend certain ways, it can get better. So I am guessing some sort of pinched nerve around the waistline in the belt area. So I am not concerned that this is something more serious.

But the pain is so bad.....

Since most of you guys are probably upright for a couple hours at a time while playing, do you ever get this? Are there pre-show exercises that alleviate this? Or any posture tips?

If I remember to take 600-800mg Ibuprofen, that seems to attenuate the problem - more evidence of a pinched nerve?

Thanks, gentlemen, for any tips.

 

[StayinTime]

I have had the same problem. I went to a chiropractor and it helped.

 

[Eric Hochberg]

Sounds serious and more than anyone can advise you here, but try not to stay static. Move your feet, bend your knees, spread your weight equally over both feet, etc. See a doctor. Alexander Technique may help, too.

 

[powerbass]

+1

Sounds serious and more than anyone can advise you here, but try not to stay static. Move your feet, bend your knees, spread your weight equally over both feet, etc. See a doctor. Alexander Technique may help, too.

 

[Clark Dark]

sounds like sciatica. I also think a chiro appointment is best. I tried accupuncture for mine but wound up going to my chiro to get lasting relief.

 

[David Potts]

With a pain like yours I would prefer to first see a doctor, someone who has access to diagnostic tools such as the various forms of scanning to make the best possible decisions and treatments. My next choice would be a sports physiotherapist.

Beware of Ibuprofen - there have been recent concerns expressed on TV here in Australia that it contains a habit-forming component. Please ask a pharmacist or doctor when you have a chance.

DP

 

[Foamy]

Thanks, gentlemen. I appreciate the tips and advice, all.

Funny, I was just in Sydney and I did have to purchase Ibuprofen from the pharmacist - it was not openly available.
In addition, before I made the walk to the pharmacy, I asked the hotel if they had any. They said that they were prevented by law from giving me any.
Anyhow, thanks again!