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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.

This condition can be triggered with wrong posture and wrist position. The left part of their body is very useful in playing the instrument. Their shoulders will serve as the support of the instrument and their left hands and fingers are used to grip it tightly while they play it. They also need the right amount of strength to perform without mistakes.

There are positions that need to be avoided. The collapsed position, for instance, must be corrected. This position allows the wrist to be bent and the fingers uncomfortably positioned. The proper way is to straighten the wrists instead with the fingers slightly bent nicely.

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.

In order to avoid harmful effects to the body, proper positioning of the violin, balanced posture, and reduced tension need to be practiced. It is also important to exercise the hands and wrists as a warm up before starting to play. Aspiring and amateur violinists need to be coached by experienced music instructors for proper guidance.

Perfection is not easy to achieve in playing instruments and in life, generally. It needs a great deal of practice and dedication. However, instrumentalists also have to keep in mind their health because they will never become professionals if they are hindered by conditions and diseases. The most beautiful music comes from those with healthy heart, mind, physique, and soul.




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