So, it’s probably safe to assume that you’re visiting this webpage because you’re someone who loves to play guitar. Has your guitar playing been interrupted by a nagging pain in your wrist that just won’t stop hurting?
If you frequently play guitar but your wrist hurts when playing, keep reading for more information about the possible causes and the treatments that may work best for your specific condition. Your wrist hurting when you play guitar may not be a permanent issue and may be efficiently resolved with the right kind of treatment.
Why might your wrist hurt from playing guitar?
- Tendinitis — Tendinitis is a condition that involves the inflammation of the tendon. This condition is commonly seen in guitar players. It usually occurs in the wrist as a result of overuse from frequent playing. The tendon in the wrist may become tight, achy and swollen.
- Repetitive strain — A repetitive strain injury is another type of common injury for guitar players. When a person moves their hand in repeated and frequent motions, they risk sustaining strain injuries to the muscles, tendons and ligaments. This type of strain results from overuse, similar to tendinitis.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome — Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the nerve that runs through the arm and hand becomes compressed. Pain may be felt from the palm to the wrist.
What are some ways you can manage wrist pain from playing the guitar?
- Physical therapy — Physical therapists are highly educated and experienced professionals who have extensive knowledge in treating a variety of physical conditions. A physical therapist can examine your wrist and create a plan to address the issue at its root. Your treatment plan will also include ways to prevent your symptoms from continuing to affect you in the future. Your therapist will work with you to reduce inflammation, build strength, and improve flexibility and range of motion. Each one of your PT sessions will target not just your symptoms, but also the cause of them.
- Splinting — Splinting is another treatment option that may help manage wrist pain. Using a splint will help keep your wrist stabilized and help to reduce any further inflammation or irritation.
- Rest — If you choose not to wear a splint on your wrist, you should at least try to rest it. Resting can help reduce inflammation and prevent any further aggravation, giving your injury time to heal.
- Medication — Anti-inflammatory medications are another mode for reducing inflammation, and pain-relieving medication may help you get through each day with less pain. However, this is not a long-term solution and may only temporarily cause your symptoms to subside.
- Corticosteroid shots — Corticosteroid shots may help temporarily reduce inflammation that causes your wrist to hurt when you play the guitar. This treatment method may require multiple injections because they may wear off over time.
Forever Fit Physical Therapy & Wellness is ready to help you manage the pain in your wrist that occurs when you play guitar
Our team at Forever Fit Physical Therapy & Wellness can offer you a physical therapy experience that is uniquely made to fit you. We esteem our patients so much that we strive to provide each one with a personalized treatment plan that adapts to their individual lifestyles, habits and future goals. If you’re wondering why your wrist feels so painful when you play your guitar, we can guide you through the treatment plan you need to effectively manage your condition. We will work with you toward the relief you’re looking for at any one of our several locations. Our Forever Fit team can help you get back to playing guitar while minimizing your discomfort and improving your wrist and hand strength for the future.
During each of your physical therapy sessions, our physical therapists will navigate you through your treatment with the utmost compassion and care so that you may see the best possible outcome for your wrist.
Ready to get started? Take back control of your wrist pain. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.