[edwardhoran]

hi - my problem is i practice so much that i have developed a left thumb(on the fretting hand)that is so sore that it inhibits playing - it feels like its sprained - always hurts - anybody got any ideas?(aside from the obvious which is to stop playing(not an option). please let me know. Thanks, Ed Horan

[Payul]

You can take an ice cube and masage the spot. ( with the icecube)

Your problem is probably: 1the pressure you develope on the thumb. or
2 your joint is bent.
If it is 2 do not bent your joint ( keep your thumb like in "thumbs up")

If it is 1 maybe you have benefit from the following.....

Ever tried to play without the thumb?

Take an easy passage and get the thumb from the back of the headstock.
If you have a firm grip with the right arm to stabilize your guitar, you will notice you are able to play with your thumb not touching the back of the headstock. This realising, try to play with lesser pressiure...

Be carefull, take some rest, although it is not an option, the problem is a warning from nature...

Payul

[flamencoblues]

I agree with Payul not to take this pain lightly. It shouldn't have happened in the first place, if playing really is the cause, suggesting that you might need to adjust you technique. However, by now you might have triggered a chronic inflammation, in which case your pain might get progressively worse. I would seriously consider going to a doctor, especially if the pain is present even when you don't play.

Flamencoblues