Performing Arts Medicine
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Sometimes our muscles and tendons are forced into positions to play an instrument (consider the neck of a violinist) when nature didn't intend our bodies to used in such a fashion. Good proper positioning as much as it is possible by instrument design then becomes important to learn in an effort to avoid a performance related injury. A good example is Sir Paul himself. Watch any documentary film about the Beatles, Wings etc and look at Sir Paul's wrist position of both his wrists. Many guitar players excessively bend the wrist (especially the right wrist of a right handed guitarist - opposite for Paul) when they play, especially Bass players. This positioning can be a cause of tendinitis in the same wrist - not something any instrumentalist wants. Try to tightly bend your fingers and wrist at the same time. Not so easy as bending your fingers and lifting your wrist up the way our wrist and fingers are made to move, right? Could this natural good positioning habit of Paul's be one reason why he has been able to enjoy a long career and without repetitive strain (as far as we know!). Maybe...... Performing Arts Medical Specialist Hand Therapist Martin Guitar enthusiast and owner Music is a magic.....