Ask a Teacher: Wrist Pains

Nathan: I'm using your videos at freeguitarvideos.com to begin my guitar learning and I am enjoying them. I have a problem though. When I hold the guitar, like you instruct to, and my wrist cramps immediately. I have very large hands; maybe that has something to do with it. It's hard to play for any longer than a few minutes. I was wondering if this was common or maybe if you've heard it before, you might have some ideas? I'd really appreciate any help! -Nathan


Peter Vogl: I would have to see you play to understand what's going on. Try this. Hold your wrist in the position for playing guitar without a guitar in your hand. Does it cramp? If it doesn't I think there are a couple of possibilities. You may be pressing down on the string too hard-most likely way to hard. Only press down hard enough to get a clear note and no harder. You might also have some of the weight of the guitar in your hand. It should be resting against your body and none of the weight of the instrument should be in your left hand. Hope this helps.

You can also check out Peter's series of lessons on guitar drills, stretches, and exercises. If you have a question about playing guitar head on over to our Ask Peter page.