TGerman -> RE: tense shoulders? (Jan. 16 2006 11:36:43)
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Hi Miguel, Though I have only just started playing I can tell you I suffer from the same thing. Here are my observations and some possible solutions: The problem with sitting classical style and prolonged sitting with one ankle crossed over onto the opposite knee is that when the postural muscles of the back and abs (core muscles) tire you tend to slouch over and rest a bit onto the guitar, when this happens the muscles of the upper back and shoulders elongate and, most likely, the pain that we feel is an elongated and now weakened muscle trying to stabilise the shoulder. Sitting in these positions for extended periods of time can really be horrendous to the body. It can all start from the pelvis, when we sit the psoas (so-az; basically connects our lower half to our upper half from the inside top of our leg to the spine just under the ribs) becomes shortened and tilts our pelvis forward this, invariably, causes low back pain (sound familiar?). This can start off a series of muscle imbalances, the front of the body becoming shortened and tight from hunching over the guitar and the back, in compensation, becomes lengthened (and a long muscle is usually weak). Some possible solutions: Stretch and strengthen. Stretch the front of the body so the back doesn't work so hard. Strengthen the back and shoulders with simple exercises such as: - Using stretch cords you buy from any fitness store perform reverse flyes. - Hold each end of the cord and stand on the middle, with a straight back bend from the hips now pull the ends of the cord straight up to your sides squeezing your shoulder blades together. In the meantime when playing the guitar try to keep good posture also try sitting on a higher stool rather than a chair and raise the righ leg, do not cross it. This will increase the angle at the hip and you will find the you have to slouch over and rest on the guitar, you can now lean over bending from the hip. I realize that this is a long post to a, seemingly, simple question but, as I have learned, there are no simple easy answers. Miguel, I hope this helps and if you have specific questions about exercises don't hesitate in asking, I will send you links to the exercises. Take care, Todd
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