Repetitive strain injury— sounds like the punchline to a joke about breaking up with a drummer. But it’s serious business.
Any of you who’ve suffered from Carpal Tunnel, Tendonitis, or other mysterious pains in your hands, arms, shoulders, neck, legs, or feet due to fingering chords, strumming strings, pumping kick pedals, or gripping sticks– you know what I’m talking about.
Being a musician involves repetitive motion. Repetitive motion for long durations can lead to strain. Strain can lead to injury. And injury means you’re not going to be able to make the big gig Saturday night.
Michael Gallant wrote a piece for the Echoes Blog about how to avoid RSIs while still maintaining your same level of musical practice and performance. (Though you might have to take more frequent breaks!) It’s called “Musicians and Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) — How to Practice Hard and Stay Healthy.”
Check it out HERE.
Also, (since many musicians currently fall into the uninsured category), remember that acupuncture can be helpful when healing from an RSI, and many community acupuncture clinics exist that will treat you on a sliding scale that’s usually no more expensive than a co-pay.
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