Off Topic Neck problems (not the wood kind)

[OldManMusic]

I've developed a bit of a problem with one of the vertebrae and nerves in the left side of my neck. While I continue down the various treatments, MRIs, physical therapists, medicine women and witch doctors, it kills me to wear my basses with a strap for more than about 10 minutes. A very real pain in the neck. I don't have the lightest collection of MM basses and I'm not really looking to find a light Sterling at this time. I have tried varying widths of straps from the 4" leather ones to the skinny EB nylon types and the end results are the same - pain. So I've taken to playing sitting on a stool. That's ok and doable but I was curious if any other knuckleheads have ever a problem like this and what they did as a work around. Searching "neck problems" on the forum most often resulted in answers like "contact EB customer service". I know the customer service gang is fabulous, but doubt they'd be much help here.

I've tried putting a skinny strap across my right shoulder (I'm right-handed) and it works, its just a bit awkward. Anyone have any other thoughts or tried anything other alternatives?
Thanks!

 

[Bass Control]

I went to a larger strap when I started playing bass again after my car accident three years ago, but that was because I was having lower back pains involving my vertebrae. Playing slung over just the right shoulder may cause you even more pain (which happened to me) because you're now relying on just one side of you back.

In your situation, I would encourage you to continue playing from a seated position until you finish your treatment. After treatment, talk to your doctor about making bass playing part of your physical therapy. It worked for me.

Hope you get better! I will be praying for you!

 

[TheAntMan]

Hey there OMM,

Keeping in mind that this is an EBMM site and that they sell straps; I will PM you with some ideas

--Ant

 

[OldManMusic]

Thanks guys. Yes, we'll keep it to MM stuff.

 

[Freddels]

Back in the 80's there was a harness idea that didn't catch on too well but it's an option. Maybe if you search the web, there might be some pics of it. I know that some sax players use something similar http://www.wwbw.com/Neotech-Soft-Sax-Harness-Strap-367501-i1130835.wwbw Click on the picture for a shot of the back.