Building hand strength for guitar

in Guitar4 years ago (edited)

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I have written before about the issues I have with my right hand due to some nerve problems that cropped up a few years back. It is not painful at all, but it means I can struggle to hold a pick for long. So I have been trying some exercises to get some strength back.

First is the D'Addario hand exerciser that should help with grip strength. You can work each finger individually and it has variable springs. They have changed the design a bit since I got mine.

It seems there are various types of finger exercise bands out there. I think mine came from ebay. They work different muscles.

I bought my Powerball gyroscope long before I had this issue as a fun little exercise device, but had not used it much recently. I need to take it easy with my weak hand, but it works various muscles in the hand and arm.

I am generally fit otherwise from all the running I do. It is just a bit frustrating that this hand struggles, but the body can go wrong in many ways and it could be worse. At least I can still play guitar.

Rock on.


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I also struggled with grip issues and nerve issues in my hands and wrists. My therapist said it would be wise to invest in some rock climbing devices that I just screwed to the wall or above the door jam. I then hang on them utilizing my fingers and hands to strengthen the muscles in that area. It works great but it is also quite the work out. I think you’re on the right track and eventually you’ll get that strength back! Or retrain those nerves. Good luck!

What a great idea! I would never have thought to screw in rock climbing grips to a wall or above a door jam for a workout.

hahaha.. Yeah, I wouldn't have either until my therapist recommended it. They are great for building hand strength. 😁

I do use our chin-up bar and do push-ups. I think there may be limits to how much strength I can get back as the nerve is not improving. There doesn't seem to be a treatment for it.

That sucks! Have you ever looked into acupuncture? I have never tried it but I’m thinking about it because I’m dealing with some back issues that will resolve themselves. A friend of mine had knee issues from running and tried it and it worked for him. Not sure. I don’t know enough about it so I am always skeptical. What I really need to do is try it out.

I'm a bit sceptical about it too. I've had a top neurologist look at it and he's not come up with anything. Anyway, it's not that bad really for life in general.

Sounds like the experts are/were on it and your in good hands! I wish you the best with it and hope, for your sake, it gets more manageable over time. 😊 If it's livable, then we somehow find a way to keep at that stuff we enjoy.

@steevc i don't use a plectrum, never have, just didn't get on with them. I use my index finger as a plectrum, hold my thumb against the tip of my index, so in a sense my index finger fingernail is my plectrum. Also, i like to be able to use my thumb to pluck the strings. So, my advice, throw away the plectrums! - Added: I prefer the duller sound given when not using a plectrum, a nicer sound quality than that of using a pick, perhaps i'd go for a pick if playing an electric.

We each have the styles of play we like and some stuff I do needs a plectrum. I'm no Jeff Beck or Mark Knoppfler. Even if I use my fingers I am still lacking strength and I can't move the fingers so well for picking.

:(

I'm still playing though!

Positive thinking, it's hard to do sometimes. Ah, you'll always be playing!

I used to just squeeze a tennis ball when I was younger. I don't honestly know what for, but I remember I was trying to build some muscles. Decades ago, so really has a clue what I was doing! Hopefully after a good amount of time these exercises pay off for you.

Trying to build a firm handshake? Year ago I heard about a climber squeezing a squash ball. You don't need super strength to play guitar, but my problem is not typical. Just thought I'd share my experiences.

Yeah, I couldn't even guess to what it was now... Might have been something for drumming, but then again who knows.

Have also that Powerball... No idea where it is, to be honest since haven't been using it for a long long time. Yours come by default with the meter? I think it was an option when I bought it. The interesting thing and your post serve as a reminder for me to find my Powerball and start using it. With my increased typing activities at HIVE as of late, I may need it to get my fingers in shape again for more power typing {LOL}

Which of the 3 devices you showed is your favourite? Or did you mention this in the video and I missed it maybe...

I liked having the numbers on the Powerball to see if I was improving, but I'm not so bothered now. I quite like the spring gadget as I can just pick it up and exercise whilst watching a video or reading.

Did you ever get a medal for using these gadgets? 🏅well, now you got one, for the Powerball one 😉

I'm flattered
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🙇

Ha! I used to have a power ball myself for hand strength. Amazing what a amount of gyroscopic force can come out of such a small device!

It's a neat device. Have to be careful not to drop it.

Howdy @steevc! I used to have this ball with centrifugal force, not such a simple thing, it constantly popped out of my hand, hehe. By the way, you have such a familiar face, I couldn't see you on TV?

You do need to use a firm grip and my hand is not so strong. That's why I don't use full speed.

I'm no TV star, just on @threespeak :)

The body can go worse and that's why we should contribute in our own way to making it better like the way you run everyday.

God is ur strength normally I believe exercise are very good to the body no matter what where old or young

Your content has been voted as a part of Encouragement program. Keep up the good work!

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