injury info

i need some help. i just got my new electric & the doctor told me i have carpel tunnel. can i still play. if so how as i normally have to bend my wrists due to small hands. if any one could give an answer it would b great. cheers,
rebel angel.

Depends on the severity of the injury, but it might be wise to take a break. I have a couple of friends who can only play for a few minutes - they used to be crazy shredders. They had tendonitis rather than carpel tunnel, but anyways....

If from your post you're saying you can't bend your wrist, then I wouldn't play guitar. Has your doctor recommended an operation? Another guy I know is waiting to have an operation on his wrist, and was advised not to play guitar or use a keyboard until after the operation and receovery.

I imagine every case is different, but be very careful..... I can only imagine what it's like to be forced off playing - I've been very lucky, but if the temptation is too strong, take it very slowly at first and do some warmups so as a minimum you don't make it any worse.... If you elevate the head of your guitar to eye level, it'll minimise the amount you have to bend your wrist.

It might be better to take a break for a few weeks / months now than to find in a year you can't play at all.....

thanx for the info. i appreciate it. :)

As well as the previous advice I'd add that you might wanna find a way to play that keeps your wrist as straight as possible. It doesn't look cool to wear your guitar around your ears, but it may let you play a bit more, especially if you've had an injury.

I had tennis elbow and rest was the best thing for it. I certainly would not rush into an operation, either. I know people who've had carpel tunnel and the operation isn't a great idea.

thnx thats cool i might get a wrist splint so i can keep it straight. :p

you should look at the posture of your hands, fingers, arms, wrists, and back. it might help if you took notice in things that your doing, or positioning yourself in a wrong manner. if you need help on posture, start up a new thread on it, 'cause I'm sure of people around here will be able to help...