Friday, February 13, 2015

Harmful Effects Of Improper Violin Wrist Position

By Beryl Dalton


The violin is one of the most classy string instruments, which sound is perfect for the orchestra. It is placed under the chin and held by the left hand with support from the shoulder. On the right hand is the bow used draw across its strings to create a sound.

Proper playing techniques contribute to making musical performances better. In addition, if the wrists are not properly positioned, there could be harmful health effects. Violin wrist position is an integral part of violin playing. Some violinists are at risk to carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects finger and hand movements necessary for playing instruments.

The wrist has flexor tendons and median nerves that work together for the functioning of the hands and fingers. They move through the space called carpal tunnel of the wrist, which is composed of muscles, carpal ligaments, and carpal bones. The median nerves enable the fingers to feel while the tendons enable movement or hand activity.

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is not functioning well, especially when it is trapped in the carpal tunnel. This may cause excruciating pain and numbness of the fingers, disabling hand and finger movements. Players of stringed instruments, like violinists, need their hands and fingers to function properly in order to grip the instrument properly as well as hit the chords well.

Wrong posture, incorrect wrist position, and also wrong gripping techniques may also trigger this deficiency. The left part of the body of the violinist, including the left shoulders and hands, must be properly positioned as other parts the body may also be strained. It is necessary that instrumentalists take extra care of their physical health as they need to be fit in gripping the instrument and showing extra movements to entertain their spectators.

The collapsed position of the wrist is risky as it strains the muscles, specifically the flexor tendons. If the muscles are too tensed, the bones are forced with each other causing pain and lack of sensation. The correct position of the wrist is straight and relaxed with fingers curved.

Looking at violinists playing a musical piece may look easy and graceful, but they are actually exerting strength in order to avoid committing mistakes. They have to make sure they are firmly holding the instrument and at the same time, maintaining the right finger arrangement to hit the right chords. This may also cause physical strain not only on the hands but at the back and the shoulders as well.

These drawbacks may be inevitable to instrumentalists of stringed instruments. But there are different ways recommended to help them take care of their bodies. These include proper posture, balanced diet, guidance from professionals, and exercise.

Good physical health helps the mind and the soul to relax and consequently become healthy as well. Along with the motivation to become better at playing the violin, violinists need also to be determined in monitoring their health. Permanent damages to their hands and wrists can be possible if they will not take extra precaution. Thus, it is important to note that the most marvelous music is played by the healthiest of heart, mind, and body.




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