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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/382631
Deguy - Posted - 04/14/2022: 11:36:18
I play clawhammer and notice my thumb getting a heaviness after short periods of drop thumbing.
I've had carpel tunnel previously, treated surgically
advice appreciated
Edited by - Deguy on 04/14/2022 15:22:09
stelldeergibber - Posted - 04/14/2022: 12:09:07
Carpal Tunnel is aggravated by prolonged and/or repetitive flexion, so stopping and resting when it happens is a good idea. Rest with the wrist and fingers straight, as staying flexed is what aggravated the problem. Also try extension exercises, open all fingers and thumb of the affected hand all the way, then touch your thumb tip to your index finger tip, then open (or extend) them all the way again, next touching the thumb tip to the long finger tip, and so on until they've all touched tips with full extension after each one. Don't make fists, that's the problem position!
chip arnold - Posted - 04/14/2022: 15:05:47
Drop thumb ... don't "pick" with your thumb. No flexing and picking the string. As your hand is moving toward the target string for the finger, move your thumb into position to hook against it's target. Don't "pick" the thumb's string. Your thumb will sound the string as your hand bounces up. So the only movement of the thumb is simply getting in position as your hand moves to strike with the finger.
Bill H - Posted - 04/15/2022: 03:56:12
Exercise has been verry effective for me. My doctor gave me some exercises for carpel tunnel, and I find yoga helps me as well. If you google carpel tunnel and hand exercises, you will find some things to try. It may take several weeks to see improvement, but it will come if you stay with exercises. Better yet, see if you can get a referral to a physical therapist.
Deguy - Posted - 04/15/2022: 08:49:05
Stretching has helped a bit already, and I think chip is right to- I’m workin on waving my thumb less
BrooksMT - Posted - 04/15/2022: 17:53:40
I have mild carpal tunnel. I have found that about 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of Omega 3 oil each day helps a lot. Fish oil contains Omega 3, as does Camelina oil (from a plant). I prefer Camelina. Health food stores have it, maybe some grocery stores. Also can get it online. I'm lucky, a local farmer grows it, and the local food coop carries it.
Some info: Have not bought from these people,looks like they sell to horse owners. But a nice explanation of what and where it comes from.
excelsupplements.com/what-is-camelina-oil/
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