playing pains.

[andyraines]

i've been playing guitar for 2 monthes now, and recently have devloped a soreness between my index and middle finger joints. merely touching it produces a writhing pain. the area has also become swollen and my mobility on the neck has decreased drastically due to this. is this common, or has anyone else faced this problem before?

[Problem Child]

Hey, it ain't normal. I've never felt any pain in my joints, even in the very beginning of my guitar playing (which isn't that long ago). I don't know much about such problems, but the rule is: if you feel pain - stop. It seems that your hand position is wrong. You probably should read the lesson on hand position on Cyberfret.com . And remember: you're not allowed to feel pain, while playing. You're gonna injure yerself.

[bobcat]

OK, first question, what time is it where you are? Is your doctors office open? If so, go to the phone and call them and set up an appointment...NOW! Sounds like a case of tendonitis brewing or at least a good strain. If so, it isn't something to be overly alarmed about, but something you should take care of. Be sure to rest and ice massage the hand until you can get in to see your doctor. To ice massage, get a foam cup, fill part way full with water and freeze it. Once frozen, peel away the top portion of the cup and rub over the hand/wrist area. This is usually done for about 10 minutes. Ask your pharmacist which over the counter anti-inflammatory pain medication that you could take. Some over the counter medications will interact poorly with other medications or health conditions that you may have. Well, why are you sitting there? Go call your doctor! Now! :p