Hi Pete,

Oh dear, I am so sorry to hear of your wrist pain development. SO frustrating!

I know this condition well because I have had it myself.

At this time, we should assume there is inflammation involved. So in addition to the cream you are using, good old fashioned ICE is a great way to help ease inflammation.

Also, an ace bandage to stabilize your wrist during daily activities, as much as possible.

Easing the inflammation takes time - it is just how the body works. It cannot be rushed. And it will heal better, the more rest you give it.

Once you ease back into playing again, keep the sessions short and sweet. You do not want to push through and re-anger the inflammation. Nice and easy.

I know this is frustrating. But don't take it to mean you have to stop learning guitar right now. You may just have to stop playing so much for a little while.

So, what if you invested your time into learning by reading, by watching?

Learning some music theory, for instance.

Or, songwriting. Or singing.

Even studying the wisdom behind the layout of the neck of the guitar can be done without your hands doing any work.

Take excellent care of your wrist, and give some creative thought to how you can invest your 'music-time' in continuing to study and learn, in alternate ways.

It WILL pay off, bigtime!!!

Wishing you all the best, Lisa