stiff fingers

flying_flute · Post by **flying_flute** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:29 pm

hi has anyone been experiencing stiff knuckles, as i have since christmas. it occurs suddenly and finishes fast enough too. if anyone knows what im talking about and knows a way to combat it please write back.
thanks
flyingflute

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:38 pm

Most discomfort in the hands can be attributed to excess tension in the hands, or a poor hand position (which will also cause tension). Have the flute serviced to be sure there are no leaks, as leaks often require you to push harder than you should have to to play, causing pain. You should try to play with the lightest finger pressure possible. Also, be sure that the way you are holding the flute is comfortable for you. There is no one univeral hand position, and it's no sin to shift your thumb a bit, or anything if it reduces your discomfort. There should be no discomfort when playing. If there is, you are likely doing something incorrectly or the flute itself needs a bit of work.

flying_flute · Post by **flying_flute** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:42 pm

thankyou i'll try as you said. but this doesnt always happen when im playing the flute it happens at random times during the day and i also play piano if that could have anything to do with it
flyingflute

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:49 pm

It could potentially. I am no concert pianist, but I don't believe pain is a proscribed part piano playing either, so you could be doing something there that causes it, which I could not even begin to help you identify.

flying_flute · Post by **flying_flute** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:50 pm

okay well thanks anyway, im looking up all the different things it can be. So thanks for your help
flyingflute

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:59 pm

No problem!