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-   -   joint protection for people with arthritis (https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=196981)

1ply 10-17-2010 10:38 AM

joint protection for people with arthritis
 
Here is a link to Mayo Clinic's recommendations for joint protection for people with arthritis http://www.mayoclinic.com/heal...t-protection/AR00027.

Let's save our fingers for playing guitars.

Peace,
Rip

rbock 10-17-2010 11:06 AM

I'd be interested in this info but the link does not appear to be working.

devellis 10-17-2010 11:27 AM

Try this:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/joi...ection/AR00027

Most of these tips apply to people who already have significant arthritis but the larger point is that doing things in a way that doesn't put undue strain on joints is a good idea. Some ways of doing things can concentrate a lot of force on a single joint. Finding ways to spread the force out (e.g., using the whole hand rather than just the fingers to twist something) will lessen the strain. Also, avoiding placing joints in extreme positions (over-flexed or over-extended) will save wear and tear. Unfortunately, a lot of what we do when we play guitar (fretting, fingerpicking, even twisting tuners) can load up joints with a lot of force. If you can do it without pain it may be okay but when it can be avoided, so much the better. As an example, when changing strings, a string winder will transfer force from the thumb and index finger to the hand and wrist, exerting considerably less force on any one joint.

Another specific example: I find that the "right" way of holding a flatpick, with the index finger tip curled so that it's parallel to the palm, puts a lot of lateral pressure on the middle knuckle of that finger. I've modified my grip in a way that some players might scorn but that I'm pretty sure will save a lot of joint trouble down the road.

rbock 10-17-2010 02:23 PM

Thanks, Bob. I noticed many of the daily activities addressed here involve using some kind of tool. Maybe I'll start playing more slide.

Wadcutter 10-17-2010 02:46 PM

Thanks for the link Rip. Anything we can do to prevent injuries and prolong our playing years is always welcome. Much appreciated brother.

Riker36 10-17-2010 07:47 PM

And NO...cracking knuckles do NOT cause arthritis. So crack away!

1ply 10-18-2010 10:08 AM

Sorry for providing a bad link.

Peace,
Rip


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