Arthritis in middle finger

[Powman]

Poo.

My top knuckle of my middle "flip the bird" finger of my right hand (plucking) has been in pain for a few months. Finally got some X-rays done and was told there is arthritis. I hate getting older...

Anyhow, I change my technique a bit. I don't pluck with this joint anymore (the one nearest the hand) but the next joint down.

But another idea I had is just switch to a pick. Although I don't like using a pick, I may have to. I was therefore thinking of getting a Classic with mutes so I don't have to worry so much about muting.

Thoughts anyone?

 

[2ndBassGuitar]

I would just stick an ugly piece of foam under the strings of your current bass x refer http://www.ernieball.com/forums/music-man-basses/45253-i-would-do-anything-mutes.html

 

[five7]

Or use your thumb.

 

[Powman]

These responses do not help justify a GAS purchase. Work with me boys...

"Honey, I NEEDED a bass with mutes because of my arthritis."

 

[2ndBassGuitar]

then go all the way...I have a few originals with mutes

 

[projectapollo]

These responses do not help justify a GAS purchase. Work with me boys...

"Honey, I NEEDED a bass with mutes because of my arthritis."

By all means. The only real option I see here is that you need to get a Classic and learn to use a pick. Paul McCartney seemed to do well with a pick.

 

[Powman]

By all means. The only real option I see here is that you need to get a Classic and learn to use a pick. Paul McCartney seemed to do well with a pick.

Thats what I am talking about! Its the ONLY option.

But back on a serious note, anybody else ever develop a problem with their hands or fingers that interfered with your ability to play bass? How did you deal with it?

 

[MadMatt]

Thats what I am talking about! Its the ONLY option.

But back on a serious note, anybody else ever develop a problem with their hands or fingers that interfered with your ability to play bass? How did you deal with it?

I cant speek of my own experience but my father had simular problems that made him unable to write or use a keyboard. He had two joints in his hand replaced and was trouble free afterwards. He said it was a standard procedure and he was back home in the afternoon. Maybe you should check with your doctor.

Hope that helps.
-Matt

 

[keko]

Powman, sorry about that, ...what to say, it's a life!

Don't lose hope, You still have 4 fingers left, or as You said always could switch to pick!

I'll play bass as long as I could open the case and pick up the bass out!

Good luck!

 

[Grand Wazoo]

Have you tried a Powerball yet? I've lost half a thumb in motorbike accident, on my right hand and with that the end nerves got troncated too meaning I can't really bend whatever is left of my thumb with the same speed and dexterity I could before when i was still o.e.m. but with the help of using pwerball I am regaining a lot more of flexibility and it is also reknowned to be good for arthritis.

Don't go for the fancy one with digital counter and spinning lights they are only gimmicks but the original one is very good:
[ame=http://www.amazon.com/Dynaflex-Pro-Sports-Gyro-New/dp/B002I074EU/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1277900589&sr=8-14]Amazon.com: Dynaflex Pro Sports Gyro, New!!: Sports & Outdoors[/ame]

 

[Joe Nerve]

About 10 years ago I had the same problem. Had problems for about 6 months, and mine started swelling up before I went to a doctor. Slapping (plucking actually) with that finger became virtually impossible, and I had to start substituting my ring finger for regular fingerstyle. Doctor told me it was arthritis. Doctors tell everyone they've got arthritis. I ignored them. My finger is fine today.

While I never mention this stuff on forums I'm going to go out on a limb here and post (because it's the ONLY treatment I gave this ailment and feel it might be a disservice to not credit it) that what I did do was give myself "reikki" on a regular basis. At the risk of sounding like a total flake, a while back I was taken somewhat unwillingly to a 2 day free workshop/seminar where people were given the powers to perform this japanese healing technique called reikki. Since it was freely given to me I went with it, almost completely not believing, but I do it and way more often than not it seems to work. It still has me questioning, but I use it frequently and I've had some completely unexplainable things happen. I'd say it's all psychosomatic, but I didn't even believe in the stuff. When my cat is sick (which is often), rekki knocks him on his side and gets him purring bigtime where my regular touch does nothing. After years of having to give him insulin 2X a day he's also healthy now at the age of 18, and off of insulin for about 2 years. Coincidence Maybe, but whatever. If interested in more info I'd suggest googling reikki.

 

[danny-79]

Damage to any musicians hands is tragic, hope it works out for you an you can work with it.
but in the mean time , dig your way of thinking a Classic, muted equipped would be very therapeutic

"Honey, I NEEDED a bass with mutes because of my arthritis."

 

[2ndBassGuitar]

You are starting to lose the use of 1/10 of your fingers (and thumbs)? I play even though I have only half a brain.

 

[nashman]

I use a topical pain and inflammation medicine (prescription) called pennsaid. Regardless, you need a new EBMM bass with mutes so it doesn't get any worse!

BTW POWMAN - I'm from Oakville (now live North of TO).

 

[Powman]

Thanks everyone. Got some prescription anti-inflammatory meds (aka steroids), and it feels so much better already. Plus getting a referral to a specialist.

But the idea of a Sterling with mutes is still intriguing.

 

[LawDaddy]

I've heard that the excessive flame on the new classic necks possess healing powers, and they have mutes.

Keep us posted on your progress.