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mtjam
Intermediate Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 158
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 5:55 pm:   Edit Post

Glad to say that I am enjoying playing my Alembics again!

Slightly over a month ago, I had carpal tunnel release surgery on my right hand. I had the same surgery on my left hand less than two weeks ago. I resisted the surgical route for over a year, opting instead for medicinal relief. Medication helped, but man it made me tired! After being identified as having moderate to severe carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands in January, I decided I had to do something about it. It had gotten to the point where my hands would tingle and fall asleep frequently every day. Playing guitar or bass was not very enjoyable since my hands would go numb after about 15 minutes.

So far, it seems that the surgeries were successful. I played a gig a few days after getting the stitches out of my right hand, and it felt great. The left hand was the worst of the two, so that has been a little harder to get back into use since I have to fret with it. It is feeling better each day, though. I still have almost a week before I gig again.

The Club has been a great place to read and learn more about fellow musicians' experiences with carpal tunnel surgery. I have appreciated the advice several members have shared with me.

Anyway, it's great to enjoy playing again. Sorry for the lengthy post. Just wanted to let everyone know how I'm doing.

Play on!
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 3333
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 6:31 pm:   Edit Post

I am glad to read of your recovery bro !
rustyg61
Senior Member
Username: rustyg61

Post Number: 1199
Registered: 2-2011
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 6:32 pm:   Edit Post

Rob, I had the surgery on my right hand in December & it completely cured me of the numbness when I play! My thumb & 1st 2 fingers used to go totally numb after the 2nd or 3rd song, but now I can do a full 1 hour set with no issues. The soreness eventually goes away & you will be back to normal.
mtjam
Intermediate Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 159
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 6:49 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks, Wolf!

Rusty, glad to hear your surgery cured your hand issues. I played exclusively with a pick at my last gig. It's a much more comfortable hand position for me. Before surgery, I could barely hold a pick anymore. I feel like I will do fine at my next gig. I'm trying to turn up louder and play lighter to take it easy with my hands.
rustyg61
Senior Member
Username: rustyg61

Post Number: 1201
Registered: 2-2011
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 11:51 pm:   Edit Post

I tried the turn up louder & play softer approach to & I just played louder! LOL!
rustyg61
Senior Member
Username: rustyg61

Post Number: 1202
Registered: 2-2011
Posted on Saturday, April 19, 2014 - 11:52 pm:   Edit Post

I tried the turn up louder & play softer approach too & I just played louder! LOL!

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