ubit Posted August 27, 2015 Share Posted August 27, 2015 [quote name='essexbasscat' timestamp='1440699157' post='2853132'] Have you had any lessons with an experienced bass player ? they may see if elements of your playing could be causing the problems. Once that has been ruled out, if the issues still continue, that would be the time to see GP / physio etc. Reason for that process is; if your bass playing situation is causing the problem,the GP etc will treat the symptoms, but they won't be treating the cause [/quote] This is what I was going to say. It could easily be your technique that is causing stress. Some of us that have been playing for years, forget that bad posture or attitude when holding your pick or neck, can cause pain. We have got so used to doing it right that we can't remember how to do it wrong. If you were standing in front of a seasoned player, they might be able to spot something. I'm not saying this is your problem, but it's worth checking out ! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peglegs42 Posted August 27, 2015 Author Share Posted August 27, 2015 [quote name='Coilte' timestamp='1440664627' post='2852722'] +1 to the above. When you get the OK from the GP or an osteopath, [i]then[/i] you can start to see if trying a different technique will help. On the "man it out" concept....playing the bass should NEVER involve pain. Some things to check out, [i]after you have sought medical advice[/i] would be to experiment with different heights at which you wear the bass. Generally a good compromise is to have the main body of the bass at about belt buckle height. A minimum strap width of 3" would be a good idea IMO. Your shoulder problems could also be a case of tension. Sometimes, without realising, we play with the body tensed up. Play in front of a mirror and try to be aware of your body and whether it is tensing up or not. The "finger" problem is probably due to you pressing down too hard when you fret. The action on your bass may also be too high. Here is a clip on left hand technique that may be of help : [url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeRoQuXlj9w"]https://www.youtube....h?v=IeRoQuXlj9w[/url] [/quote] Thanks, this was helpful Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
essexbasscat Posted August 27, 2015 Share Posted August 27, 2015 [quote name='peglegs42' timestamp='1440708709' post='2853252'] Now that I think about it, I actually think the shoulder problem was caused by recklessly doing weights at the gym about 6 months ago - the pain has been on-and-off since but aggravated by my bass playing. Also I rarely go to the gym anymore. [/quote] This is in the line up of suspects causing the problem. An unresolved strain injury aggrevated by hobby of bass playing ? has your shoulder adapted to the strain in an unhelpful way ? A proper hands on physio assessement would be your friend Best wishes for a good recovery Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peglegs42 Posted August 27, 2015 Author Share Posted August 27, 2015 [quote name='discreet' timestamp='1440673904' post='2852834'] Yes, indeed. I can recommend this e-book on bass-playing related injuries. Worked for me. [url="http://www.notreble.com/buzz/2015/06/01/the-bassists-guide-to-injury-management-now-available-as-ebook/"]http://www.notreble....lable-as-ebook/[/url] I have no connection to anyone involved with the book. [/quote] Cool, will do. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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