Woodwind.OrgThe Clarinet BBoardThe C4 standard

 
  BBoard Equipment Study Resources Music General    
 
 New Topic  |  Go to Top  |  Go to Topic  |  Search  |  Help/Rules  |  Smileys/Notes  |  Log In   Newer Topic  |  Older Topic 
 Left Hand fingers, numb,
Author: David S. 
Date:   2025-03-30 01:36

Hi everyone. A few months ago, I was seeking information about plateaued keyed Clarinets. I had developed an impairment in my left hand, which caused my fingers not to cover the tone holes. Well, while I’m getting my R 13 converted to Plateau keys, i’ve been lucky to have obtained a Noblet plateau keyed Clarinet and a plateau keyed alto clarinet as well. So I’m somewhat back in the game of playing in various ensembles. However, the new problem I face is numbness in my left hand fingers possibly called by a pinched nerve, neuropathy, etc. No pain, just numbness. So the specific reason for this post was to see if anyone experiences or has experienced the same issue and may have some successful ways of treating the problem. Any information is much appreciated.

Reply To Message
 
 Re: Left Hand fingers, numb,
Author: kdk 
Date:   2025-03-30 04:53

David S. wrote:

> So the specific reason for this post was
> to see if anyone experiences or has experienced the same issue
> and may have some successful ways of treating the problem. Any
> information is much appreciated.

You probably won't like my answer (I don't remember if I made the same suggestion last time). See a doctor - probably starting with your Primary Care Physician (if you're in the U.S. using American insurance) but probably then either an orthopedist or a neurologist to diagnose the cause of the numbness. You may be able to get around the problem for awhile, but if nerve compaction is the cause, you need guidance from a qualified medical specialist, not from a bunch of clarinetists reading your posts online.

The numbness, btw, may be a new symptom, but it's likely still part of the original problem. It sounds as though the problem is progressing *in spite of* the plateau keys, etc... Get a real diagnosis instead of waiting until you really can't play.

Karl

Karl

Reply To Message
 
 Re: Left Hand fingers, numb,
Author: hans 
Date:   2025-03-30 05:17

David,
My right index finger (not the whole hand) suddenly went numb more than 5 years ago. My MD diagnosed a pinched nerve in my neck and sent me to physiotherapy but that didn't help. Eventually the feeling came back without further intervention but that was just good luck; your numbness may have a different cause.
As Karl has said above, you need professional medical help to get a diagnosis and treatment.
I hope your luck is as good as mine was.
Regards,
Hans

Reply To Message
 
 Re: Left Hand fingers, numb,
Author: crazyclari 
Date:   2025-03-30 06:01

I agree with above and would suggest likely a neurologist would be more appropriate than an orthopaedist. I must admit your gp's advice....There are two nerves branches that innervate the hand. The radial nerve is the relevant one for the thumb and index finger.



Post Edited (2025-04-01 12:08)

Reply To Message
 Avail. Forums  |  Threaded View   Newer Topic  |  Older Topic 


 Avail. Forums  |  Need a Login? Register Here 
 User Login
 User Name:
 Password:
 Remember my login:
   
 Forgot Your Password?
Enter your email address or user name below and a new password will be sent to the email address associated with your profile.
Search Woodwind.Org

Sheet Music Plus Featured Sale

The Clarinet Pages
For Sale
Put your ads for items you'd like to sell here. Free! Please, no more than two at a time - ads removed after two weeks.

 
     Copyright © Woodwind.Org, Inc. All Rights Reserved    Privacy Policy    Contact charette@woodwind.org