Question and Answer

Hi Pat,

I am a performing jazz guitarist in my 50s. As I advance in years, I have been having trouble with the physicality of my hands i.e. tendon trouble, carpal tunnel and others. I was wondering if you have ever had any trouble of this nature and if not, how you keep it at bay or if so, how you keep your hands, arms etc. healthy and from jeopardy.

Big big and longtime fan!

Victor Acker

Hi Victor,

I am lucky in that I have had very few issues in this area. Part of my way of playing is to be very relaxed and loose with both hands when I play which I think has had long term benefits over the years. I really try to keep everything so loose that if you came up from behind me you could easily knock my hands off the instrument. I feel like I am barely touching it at all sometimes. I wish you luck in this and hope you stay heathy playing.