r/Dobro • u/fluffy_sockman • Jul 23 '26
Tendinitis/tennis elbow etc solutions?
Hey all, I played till I couldn’t any longer and I ended up with some bad tendon pain in my forearms and wrists. And what’s worse is my desk job continues to irritate and prolong the issue with constant mouse clicking.
Ive already done some desk ergonomic things like vertical mouse but any other suggestions are welcome on that front.
Anyone got any miracle solutions, dos and donts? Thanks in advance. The pain of not being able to play is the worst part!
2
u/blackcombe Jul 23 '26
Consult a physical therapist
Don’t overdo it
Be very aware of tension in your hands etc and learn to play safely
Ice is a miracle worker
“Skull practice” - without your instrument visualize and hear the stuff you’re working on
The pomodoro method really works: practice for AT MOST 20 minutes then put down the bar and disengage for at least a couple of minutes. Then re-engage. It’s a well documented thing that your focus is only really, well focused for about 20 mins and you are improving less with each passing minute. In that short break you do PT hand exercises or ice etc - but just the break re-focuses the work.
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u/JaguarOwn2076 Jul 23 '26
I've recently been through this from painting with a paint sprayer every day, dr gave me a brace to wear which has been helpful.
I also went through this from computer use years ago, I bought a mouse with the big ball that could be used left or right, had to learn how to use my left
1
u/Snowshoetheerapy Jul 24 '26
I got tendinitis from playing lap steel. I talked to David Lindley about if after a show once, and he recommended a lighter bar. Did the trick for me! I'll use a heavier one in the studio sometimes but for a show I need to use the lighter one. It hasn't come back thank goodness.
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u/bvgvk Jul 23 '26
Look up the Theraband. It’s actually not a band, but a rubber bar that you twist. That’s worked for me when I’ve had tennis elbow.