Ageing as a Guitarist: Tips for Maintaining Hand and Joint Health

It's a reality that as we age, our bodies change. This can be particularly challenging for guitarists who rely on their hands and fingers to perform their craft. In this article, I'll share my personal journey and tips for maintaining hand and joint health as an older guitarist. From my experience, I hope to provide helpful insights for fellow guitarists who are facing similar challenges.

A Personal Journey of 40 Years

I am a right-handed guitarist with a versatile playing style that includes classical, rock, funk, and jazz. I have been playing the guitar for about 40 years, which is a significant portion of my life. Over the years, I have faced two instances of severe hand and joint pain, which I believe were primarily due to overexertion and lack of proper conditioning.

First Instance of Hand Pain

My first instance of severe hand pain occurred after a long absence from classical playing. Coinciding with this, I also took up tennis and table tennis, which put my right hand under considerable strain. The pain was so intense that it severely restricted my ability to move my hand and even grasp and hold objects. A specialist physiotherapy course, strapping, and moderation over several months helped me to recover.

Second Instance of Hand Pain

Around 9 years ago, I resumed serious practice sessions, which led to another bout of hand pain. It's worth noting that the pain in my left hand was more localized and seemed to be a response to specific exercises or too many barres. Despite the discomfort, the pain in the left hand would subside after a session.

Adopting Solutions for Long-Term Health

To address the recurrent hand pain, I started hiking and developed a set of hand and finger exercises that I perform during my hikes. These exercises were designed to be gentle yet effective, focusing on flexing, loosening, and strengthening my hands and fingers. Since incorporating these exercises into my routine, I have not experienced a recurrence of hand or joint pain. Furthermore, these exercises make me feel like I am getting 'extra practice'.

Supplementing with Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Alongside these exercises, I have also adopted certain dietary and supplement habits. For instance, I regularly consume turmeric powder, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, I occasionally take Devil's Claw and Selenium supplements, which are recommended for joint health by others.

Regular Practice and Gradual Progression

Ultimately, regular and consistent practice is key. Overdoing it can lead to pain and discomfort. If you plan to increase the duration or intensity of your practice or attempt more challenging exercises, do it gradually and slowly. This will help you maintain your form and prevent injuries.

Conclusion

Staying active, regularly practicing, and taking steps to manage joint pain can make a significant difference in maintaining your playing abilities as you age. Adapting to the natural changes in your body and incorporating exercises and supplements can go a long way in keeping your hands and joints healthy.

Happy playing and good luck!