 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: clarinet713
Date: 2001-08-21 02:00
Someone has already mentioned this, but if anyone remembers anything from Christine MacDonnald's (I think that's her name) seminar about overuse syndrome, I would LOVE to read about it!!!! Thanks
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Author: connie
Date: 2001-08-21 18:32
I took a few notes during her presentation, so in anticipation of the official posting, this is what I got from her talk. Most of this information has been addressed in various posts earlier, but it's nice to put it all together. There will be some controversy about some of the suggestions; please don't kill the messenger.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is common, but not the only overuse syndrome that can occur. Symptoms to beware of are swelling, numbness or tingling, and pain or a burning sensation in the hand or arm. If these occur, it is VITALLY IMPORTANT to STOP PLAYING and REST AS SOON AS THEY OCCUR. If you must practice, break it into shorter segments, about 10-15 minutes each, and rest in between. If the symptoms don't improve, see a doctor.
For prevention, she suggested stretching exercises for the fingers, wrist, elbow, shoulders, neck, and jaw. Warm up and stretch these muscles before playing. Drink plenty of water, since dehydration will aggravate the inflammation. Don't slouch, which strains the neck and back... remember that whatever stresses one part of the musculoskeletal system will affect other parts upstream and downstream. She suggested tilting the chair forward with blocks under the back legs if necessary to keep the spinal alignment straight. Watch the thumbrest position, which can put more strain on the wrist.
She also suggested some vitamin and nutrient supplements that might help.
She suggested training with the Alexander technique for correct use of muscles. An audience member commented that that technique works well, better if you learn it before you're in pain, and suggested that all our young players should look into that. In fact, prevention is definitely important, and another audience member made the point that we should be teaching our young people to play in a relaxed fashion, since tension makes the overuse syndrome worse.
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Initially, stop and rest; use ice to reduce swelling, and perhaps take anti-inflammatory medication: ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or even aspirin. (Tylenol is NOT an anti-inflammatory drug.) Other options that may be considered by your doctor include a splint or brace, injected steroids, or surgery if other measures fail. Physical therapists can help with stretching and strengthening exercises, and sometimes use electrostimulation or ultrasound to help healing. Some people have had good results with massage therapy or acupuncture.
Hope this helps.
connie
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