Hi,

I think I'm going to have to record a video but ATM I don't have any camera. Maybe some of you can help me.
So, here's what happens: Whenever I play 16ths notes above 60BPM my elbow (maybe my tricep) starts to hurt, I firstly, thought this was because of lifting but it is not; I've been an entire week without working out and it always hurts. Just a side note: I think this doesn't happen when I'm standing up, only when I'm sitting down practicing (most of the day) and my right arm feels uncomfortable.

My right arm just feels uncomfortable. For example, when I'm standing up, my right arm feels relaxed because my guitar is more distant so my arm is more stretched and relaxed but when I'm sitting down and playing, my arm has no place to "stand" so I flex my right tricep. I think that's what happens.


I know I should use my wrist when alternate picking... I only see my wrist moving but I feel tension on my right arm.

This topic describes it with a bit more depth: http://dinosaurrockguitar.com/forum/index.php?topic=2844.0

It think the video is necessary. There are some players that play from the elbow but very many of us focus their main strength source in the wrist. IT really helps to avoid a lot of tension. You probably tense Your hand to much while trying to pick faster...instead of minimizing the movement and trying to add the wrist motion. Getting wrist movement demands particular hand and wrist angle. Try to put a few vids of Your right hand from at least 3 different angles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2jIgbp0VdI Here's a video, ATM I don't have my camera.

and another: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXyYNzBkqVo

This problem didn't happen before. Only recently, 3 months maximum... Which makes it weird.



Thanks Darius

Your right hand looks very well. Indeed there is nothing that could be a clear reason of Your issue. I would advice something we did a lot of times and it was a best solution - GO AND SEE A DOCTOR.

I better do that..

I agree with Darius on this one Go see what the doc says, as out of what I've noticed it doesn't look like you are doing something which would cause damage or so..

Hi mate, I checked your video and it doesn't seem to be happening something wrong there. I have to agree with the other instructors and recommend you to go and see a doctor. I also consider important that you do this stretches and massages, always before you start playing:




Please go to the doctor and tell us what he says.

Gabe pointed out a very important thing - do not jump into action without stretching out, massaging and getting warmed up. Pain can come in due to serious effort done without properly preparing the body beforehand. I will share a video I've done a few years back that shows a very efficient warm up massage - you can literally feel the results

Pain seemed mouse related to me rather than guitar? ask that to the doctor too while youre there

There are a lot of devices meant to protect the wrist when working with the computer - such as these, but as everyone underlined - check with the doc, ok?



I use this sort of thing