The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: psychotic lil clarinet girl (don't as
Date: 2004-07-24 03:23
I do believe I am starting to develop arthritis... It might be from playing the piano, or it may be from playing the clarinet, or maybe even from typing... Have any of y'all developed arthritis from playing the clarinet? I'm still young, so that's not a good sign that my hands are sore... Is there any way to prevent this? If so, please do help...
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Author: DAVE
Date: 2004-07-24 05:16
Stop before if hurts, and take Advil if needed.
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Author: Hank Lehrer
Date: 2004-07-24 11:17
MaryBGood,
Do a search for hands and pain and you will find lots of information. Although I am not an MD, arthritis is doubtful.
There are many other problems that come from using the computer too much (I use a thumb track ball as I began to experience wrist pain - all gone now) or engaging in an excessive amount of repetitive motions like practicing too much.
Do the search.
HRL
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Author: leonardA
Date: 2004-07-24 12:39
I had this problem from over-practicing recently and went to a massage therapist, which really helped. Besides the immediate relief the massage gave me, she said it was important to stretch and warm up before and after practicing, just like athletes do. Bend each finger back and forth both ways and also shake your hands up and down to loosen up the fingers and hand muscles. There are some excellent warm-up exercises described in the book, The Art of Practicing by Madelyn Bruser. Hope this helps. It has helped me.
Leonard
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Author: BG ★2017
Date: 2004-07-25 03:58
I would like to suggest that you consider using the Grip-Master finger and hand exerciser. As the description reads: it isolates each finger for greater dexterity and strength. One source to view it is the Woodwind/Brasswind catalog. Type in catalog number 70844. I highly recommend it and try to use it before most of our orchestra's rehearsals and concerts, as well as before most of my practice sessions. Also, you may want to consult your doctor to see if some medication or dietary changes might help. Best of luck to you!
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Author: psychotic lil clarinet girl (don't as
Date: 2004-07-25 04:26
Thanks... I'll look into that... It's not as bad as it was last night, but it comes close... It gets really bad occasionally, and somedays I don't have it at all... But most of the time I'm like I am now... Where with every movement of my fingers, it may or may not hurt...
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Author: Hank Lehrer
Date: 2004-07-25 11:01
Mary,
Did you do the search for the words hands and pain? All the information you need will be there.
HRL
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Author: BobD
Date: 2004-07-26 15:38
Mary, it may be carpal tunnel syndrome. Since I have "it" I would strongly suggest you consult with an appropriate medical doctor since aggravation can lead to permanent nerve damage....so they say.
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Author: Dee
Date: 2004-08-05 14:52
One thing not mentioned is that you need to look into your hand position when playing the clarinet or typing on the computer, etc. Incorrect position is a major cause of problems. Essentially your wrist needs to be straight not bent both for playing clarinet and typing.
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Author: BobD
Date: 2004-08-05 15:32
I think Psyc girl should seek medical advice since her condition has not really been medically diagnosed yet. If, for example, the problem is really early-on rheumatoid arthritis it should be treated. I'm not a doctor, only a carpal tunnel and arthritis patient.
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Author: Don Berger
Date: 2004-08-05 15:46
I have ?only? a bit of arthuritis, stiff knuckles, knee and back pains at times, just chalk it up to living into 85 yarrs. It doesn't greatly interfere with my playing bass cl, does some on sop cl, at least I can "excuse" some of my bad notes !! Have taken the "cheapie" glucosamine/ chondroitin [sp?] which seemed to help my knees??. My BW has quite a bit of arth. some pains, somewhat bent over [taking expensive Fosamax, Help??] but has found generic [WMT] acetaminophen, usually 500mg [E S 650], to be a satisfactory Pain reliever. Some formulations have diphenhydramine [sp] as a sleep-inducer, quite safe. These are "old-folks" over-the-counters, so yes, check on Carpal T S, be careful, and best wishes. Re: Dee's good advice, yes, look at playing positions, I'm an advocate of raising thumb rests to be kinder to my right hand/wrist. Don
Thanx, Mark, Don
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