2/08/2015

The Dangers Of Wrong Violin Wrist Position

By Beryl Dalton


The violin is one of the most classy string instruments, which sound is perfect for the orchestra. It is placed under the chin and held by the left hand with support from the shoulder. On the right hand is the bow used draw across its strings to create a sound.

The instrumentalist will not be able to endure long hours of playing, especially in concerts, if wrong techniques in playing are used. Correct violin wrist position contributes to creating good music out of the violin. Aside from this, there could be lasting drawbacks that will probably force an instrumentalist to stop playing for the rest of his life. Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the deficiencies that may stop the music forever.

The carpal tunnel is the space near the wrist formed by carpal bones and ligaments. The median nerves and flexor tendons pass through this space. Flexor tendons are responsible for finger movements necessary in playing the stringed instruments. On the other hand, the median nerves send message to the fingers to feel sensation.

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is not functioning well, especially when it is trapped in the carpal tunnel. This may cause excruciating pain and numbness of the fingers, disabling hand and finger movements. Players of stringed instruments, like violinists, need their hands and fingers to function properly in order to grip the instrument properly as well as hit the chords well.

This condition can be triggered with wrong posture and wrist position. The left part of their body is very useful in playing the instrument. Their shoulders will serve as the support of the instrument and their left hands and fingers are used to grip it tightly while they play it. They also need the right amount of strength to perform without mistakes.

There are positions that need to be avoided. The collapsed position, for instance, must be corrected. This position allows the wrist to be bent and the fingers uncomfortably positioned. The proper way is to straighten the wrists instead with the fingers slightly bent nicely.

Looking at violinists playing a musical piece may look easy and graceful, but they are actually exerting strength in order to avoid committing mistakes. They have to make sure they are firmly holding the instrument and at the same time, maintaining the right finger arrangement to hit the right chords. This may also cause physical strain not only on the hands but at the back and the shoulders as well.

These drawbacks may be inevitable to instrumentalists of stringed instruments. But there are different ways recommended to help them take care of their bodies. These include proper posture, balanced diet, guidance from professionals, and exercise.

Precision in playing the violin can be acquired with a lot of patience and dedication, taking into consideration physical health. Injuries or even diseases like carpal tunnel syndrome may be experienced without proper adherence to techniques, recommended posture, and exercise. Always remember that the most melodic of all music is produced by a healthy mind, body, and spirit.




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