They call me "Mr. Goodhands"...
Aug 11 '00
This is kind of a weird subject - "Healthy Hands", but you know what - if you are a serious musician you've got to have full use of your hands (and sometimes feet, if you play drums). Yes, got to keep 'em healthy! I've been lucky, and have been able to keep my hands healthy and limber. I actually have my hands insured through ten different insurance companies - one for each finger. Still, here are some tips to keep your hands and fingers healthy...
Avoid jobs that put your hands at risk! - This is numero uno! Most hand injuries happen on the job. If you play an instrument, you really should avoid restaurant jobs (especially prep cook positions), working with glass (I've heard horror stories of people losing their arms working in glass factories), and working with power tools (don't want to lose your fingers to a skill saw). I can't count how many times bandmates have cancelled practices because they sliced their fingers to the bone at their cooking job, requiring many stitches. I actually refuse to work any job where I must use my hands - perhaps that's why I'm chronically unemployed.
Use keyboard shortcuts on the computer - Using the mouse to do everything on your computer can really screw up your wrists. I have felt this pain myself. Whenever possible, use keyboard shortcuts with the programs you use, especially if you use a computer for many hours a day at your job or at home. I actually take this to the extreme - I don't type with my fingers - I type with my nose.
Learn karate - In the event someone jumps you on the street, or whatever, you don't want to risk hurting your hand punching somebody. Learn some karate, and learn to fight with your feet. Save your hands for your guitar...
Stretch, stretch, stretch - If you're feeling any pain in your arms, hands, fingers, etc., try some stretching exercises. This really helps. Take a look at my profile photo, where I'm demonstrating the very effective "pinkie stretch"...
Keep your hands well lubricated - Use hand lotion to avoid dry, cracked skin on your hands. Okay, now this is getting silly. One more serious tip...
Too much practice makes Jack a sore boy - Especially if you're new to your instrument, you can wear out your arms, wrists, and fingers if you practice too much. Take your time - I don't care if you heard Eddie van Halen practices eight hours a day, if your fingers are gettin' sore and stiff practicing those hammer-ons, take a break!
That's all I have for now. Thanks for stopping by...
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Paul Blow: A man for all seasons, a man for all reasons.
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