It's long been realized that serious string players are prone to suffer repetitive stress injuries. This has been greatly complicated by the computer age, where students spend hours behind a computer keyboard.  In addition, one can suffer serious injuries with lasting consequences.  We discuss both repetitive stress and acute injuries and how to prevent them. 

Learning Music Improves Emotional and Cognitive Health.   Recent studies cites new research.

String Players:

Serious string players are prone to suffer repetitive stress injuries. This has been greatly complicated by the computer age.  They can take years to develop but can be prevented.

Sadly. many traditional techniques of playing are absolutely terrible for health.  We've learned a great deal about ergonomics, which I  incorporate into my lessons.

Early lessons are essential as it's much easier to learn proper technique than to unlearn bad habits. 

Basics:  The main causes of repetitive stress injuries are micro-tears in tissues with accompanying reduction in essential circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid.  The most important factor is to maintain body positions that allow optimal circulation.

Your Lymphatic System:  Your lymphatic system removes waste products and provides the natural repair associated with repetitive actions and playing music. 

The lymphatic system does not have a pump.  Rather, your movement or exercise is the pump.

Computers:   In the modern age, people spend a great deal of time on computers. As children start working with keyboards early in life, the dangers increase.

As all my students also use computers, this further increases the need to understand ergonomics.

A traditional keyboard causes the user to bend their wrists. Ergonomic keyboards and mice keep the wrists straight in what greatly improves circulation and naturally heals these micro-injuries.  Take short breaks for your hands and eyes.

I request that all my students get ergonomic keyboards for their long-term computer needs.  A good keyboard can be used on many generations of computers.

Piano Students:  Apply the basics listed above. Keep your back straight, warm up slowly, practice regularly, and focus on good technique. 

Summary: 

Warm up, get a great setup, maintain a neutral position, move and get proper instruction.   Early lessons teach healthy, efficient technique.

Slow and steady wins the race.  Call Bob Comarow at 321-591,1954 or 530-746-2030.

comarow@yahoo.com