LE and playing guitar? (or other similar activities)

Options
MaxineO
MaxineO Member Posts: 555
edited April 2015 in Lymphedema

I have mild lymphedema and only wear glove/sleeve when I have a flare-up or am doing strenuous activity.  I have been taking guitar lessons for about four months now, and lymphedema in my thunb really flares up and becomes quite painful.  I have started wearing my glove and sleeve, but it's hard to stretch my hand into the guitar chords!

Anyone have experience with this or any advice?  I'm not going to quit my lessons, but it would be nice to be in less pain!

Thanks!

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • cookiegal
    cookiegal Member Posts: 3,296
    edited April 2015

    I am so sorry. It sucks when lymphedema makes something you love less fun. My only suggestion would be to try some different brands of gloves and see if one is stretchier.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Kicks
    Kicks Member Posts: 4,131
    edited April 2015

    I do not play guitar, but do play piano/organ. I don't have any problem with reaching when glove is on. It did seem the 'feel' was a bit tight/snug when I first started playing with a glove but no issue now.

    Perhaps a gauntlet might be better for you while playing. I use a gauntlet instead of glove, when working the horses. When just riding, glove is fine but when working/training them I need a better 'feel' than a glove allows so I use a gauntlet then and switch back to glove when done.

    Don't quit doing something that brings you enjoyment as that is very important to you overall well being. It may take a bit to figure out what works best for you, but there is something that will if you seek it.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • SusanSnowFlake
    SusanSnowFlake Member Posts: 165
    edited April 2015

    I'm not guitarist, but this might help.

    My LEPT told me to do finger stretches. I open up my hand and stretch my fingers out like a fan then relax them 20-30 times in a row 3-5 times a day. It only takes a few minutes.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories