Playing Music Without Pain

I am a member of the Chapman Stick listserv and just read a thread in which one musician pleaded to the community for information about how to treat his growing wrist pain.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI's), such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, are common afflictions for musicians (especially if they also spend time on the computer) - and yet, too frequently, establishing the right habits for musical performance without pain is not a priority until it's too late.

One of the respondents, Jim O'Gara, explained that he had gone through a very difficult period during which RSI's had forced him to stop playing music completely, leading to severe depression.  After consulting with numerous physical therapists and learning an increidible amount about ergonomics and massage, he has made it a personal mission to teach musicians proper self-maintenance (and, in lieu of that, self-treatment). 

It is essential for us to learn that we can express ourselves without destroying ourselves, that we can be creative and productive and still have a sustainable relationship with our bodies.  (Contrary to the mythos, enduring creativity requires health, not derangement.)

I highly encourage you to look Jim up.  His website, www.painfreemusician.com, is still under construction, but it already has invaluable information regarding RSI's, as well as his contact information.  He will also have a book out sometime next year, a comprehensive pictorial guide to correct posture, massage, and stretches - but in the meantime, he is making himself available to musicians in need and will gladly assist you if you are in pain.

My deep gratitude to Jim for turning his suffering into a gift to the world, something that will empower countless individuals to realize their creativity in a healthy way.