And so it begins…
What do you have at the start of your life and lose at the end?
Your health.
So, as boring as this sounds, take care of yourself or you may never be able to wield your axe of power again. This is my top tip #1.
If you haven’t heard of the following, check them out (disclaimer: I’m no medical professional).
– Repetitive Strain Injury (stop playing so much, dummy!)
– Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
– Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
As I type I can say that I am currently experiencing cubital tunnel syndrome. Using a computer all day at work then at home and resting my elbow on the car door rest as I drive does tend to put undue pressure on the ulnar nerve! That nerve, if “trapped,” can cause your ring finger and pinky to feel numb. Most people haven’t heard of cubital tunnel syndrome, so there you go. Now you know.
Other things to look out for are correct posture (don’t slouch!) and also the relief of tension in your playing – but that’s for another time.
Here endeth the lesson.
tommysixstring 