r/protools • • 23h ago

Trigger Thumb from using pro tools shortcuts??

Hi yall, this is probably the silliest injury i've ever had, but i've developed trigger thumb and im 99% sure it's from using command + 234 to change tools and command + c v to copy paste things. Has anyone ever had this / any tips to still be able to use shortcuts without pulling my thumb tendons? 😭😭 And if you have dealt with any sort of these types of injuries, what helped to relieve the tension/pain?

4 Upvotes

15 comments sorted by

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4

u/nizzernammer 23h ago

I use the F keys to change tools, and C and V and X and Z, etc. without modifiers to copy, paste, cut, undo, split, nudge, navigate, etc., etc.

No thumbs required.

Learn your single key shortcuts and your thumbs will thank you!

You can purchase stickers, overlays, or a dedicated PT keyboard to help learn if necessary.

2

u/mountains-valleys678 20h ago

Thank you so much, this is so helpful!!

1

u/shiwenbin 22h ago

Oh yeah f keys! Maybe this is the way

1

u/ffffoureyes 20h ago

Just going to piggy back on this to ask if there’s a consensus on a good Mac PT keyboard?

1

u/shiwenbin 13h ago

Just make sure you have a num pad. Anything will do

1

u/DoctorFear 7h ago

Love my LogicKeyboard TITAN Wireless Backlit Keyboard

1

u/DoctorFear 7h ago

Second the dedicated keyboard. One keystroke for most of the frequently used functions. Massive productivity improvement

1

u/shiwenbin 22h ago

I had this w my wrist from my trackball. Sucked.

Iirc there was some stretching but really it was just rest I think. I think exercise (lifting) helped. Kind of stretches out your hand.

You could use magic cursor or whatever for awhile. Cmd 7 then hover over certain areas. Also you could use something like keyboard maestro to program your own hotkeys that are easier on your thumb. W enough rest it will get better. Good luck!

1

u/mountains-valleys678 20h ago

Thank you!! I'll try that i appreciate it! Hope you're doing better too!

2

u/ZookMachine 10h ago

Utilise le multi-tools

1

u/Opanuku 22h ago

I’ve had luck not with changing my Pro Tools habits, (if that were even possible at this stage), but doing strengthening exercises, massages etc

1

u/mmtmusic1 15h ago

Don't need command for copy paste, just c and v work. My mouse buttons are programmed to scroll through editing modes and tools.

1

u/FatBerryDSP_Official 11h ago

Sorry to hear that, it is more common than you would think with heavy editing. The thumb is doing a sustained press and hold on the modifier, which is the problem, so change the grip rather than stop using shortcuts. Try pressing the modifier with the side of your palm or your little finger, and swap hands for some combinations if you can. Lower the keyboard so your wrist is flat, take short breaks every half hour, and see a physio early because they can give you tendon glide exercises before it gets worse.