 The Clarinet BBoard
|
Author: jan
Date: 2001-08-17 07:42
I practiced for like an hour (the usual) on sunday. the next day, my thumb and hand was sore (like all over sore, not sure exactly where th epain is coming from). It hurt my arm a little bit too. it was sore until yesterday. why did this happen? i'm 17 and I"ve been playing for 8 years now.
how much do those koooooooiamann (spelling?) things cost? if i don't like 'em, can i take it off?
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Anji
Date: 2001-08-17 13:03
As a user of the TK (that's easier to spell, innit?) thumbrest, I highly recommend the cheapo version; called the Etude.
It is plastic, and spreads the load out over a broader expanse on your thumb.
It uses a plate mounted to your clarinet, connected to the original screws.
It may be removed easily.
With the range of adjustment, you should be able to find a more comfortable position. If you're in pain now, STOP playing for a day or five.
Alternately, try the neck straps that are out there and have the thumbrest moved up to oppose your thumb and first finger (if you hold a piece of paper, pinched between the thumb and index finger... that position).
Me, I like the TK.
The Plastic Etude is about $30. The metal version is well over $200.
anji
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Jim
Date: 2001-08-18 04:21
A 17 year old who has been playing clarinet for 8 years should not suddenly have pain after an hour of playing. Get to a doctor and get checked out. Perhaps take your instrument with you or at least demonstrate the force the clarinet exerts on the thumb.
A search of this board for recent posts on thumb and wrist pain will give some idea of the potential problems.
I hope you just have a sore thumb and thumbrest modifications/ neck strap will solve it, but get checked out to be sure. Good luck!
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Sara
Date: 2001-08-18 05:02
I use a neckstrap when my wrist starts to hurt, and it takes about half the pressure off, I think it works well for me. Who says that being 17 has any difference in whether we should have pain problems? This is going on to my 5th this Christmas, year of playing, and I got diagnosed with carpels tunnel this past February. I would suggest going to see a chirapractic or doctor or something, the worst they can say is dn't play, which kind of sucks but in the long run its better for your health. Since you are only 17, like me, we shouldn't be having these problems at such an early age. Anyways, I wish the best of luck to you, and believe me, I feel your pain!!
Sara
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Bob Curtis
Date: 2001-08-18 15:46
I second the motion of all who have said to get it check out by your family physician. This is not typical and could lead to more serious problems if not treated. Don't take chances, especially since you are so young. An older person would expect some aches and pains, but not one so young. Get it checked out!!!
Bob Curtis
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Ash
Date: 2001-08-20 11:23
Wrist and arm problems are, unfortunately, only too common amongst clarinettists. Playing the clarinet is a physical activity which places particular stress on the right thumb and wrist. If anyone is interested in some scientific research into the subject, check out the journal "Medical Problems of Performing Artists".
Jan, as someone who has experienced, and recovered from, wrist problems, my first piece of advice is NEVER PLAY THROUGH PAIN. The following are some other things to consider:
Tension in your wrist, arm or shoulder (also ask your teacher to assess this).
Were you playing something more difficult than usual? Sometimes we tense up during difficult passages without realising it.
Did you take adequate breaks in your practice session? Try 2 half hour sessions with a break in between instead of one solid hour.
How is your posture (both sitting and standing)?- your teacher can also help with this.
A lot of musicians I know find Alexander Technique very helpful.
The neckstrap and thumbrest suggestions already mentioned are definitely worth investigating.
Do seek some medical advice if you keep experiencing pain, but bear in mind that GP's may not be trained to deal with problems specific to musicians. My experience was that they (understandably) did not understand the mechanics of playing the instrument, and usually just prescibed anti inflammatory meds. While this may help clear up any inflammation, it does not address the cause of the problem. I went to a sports physio who had treated lots of musicians, and who was a great help. It is worth looking up performing arts medicine (still a relatively new field) on the internet to see if there are any clinics near you.
There is a lot more I could say, but I think I've waffled enough! If you have any more questions, feel free to email me.
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
The Clarinet Pages
|
 |
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
