My guitar days may be over

[pie_man_25]

What basically happened is that my joints and tendons in both my hands (especially my left!) are very painful and swollen. The doctors where I live refuse to treat me, so I'm basically doctoring my self.

I'm trying to get the swelling to go down. So right now, I can still play guitar but it hurts like a mother. Talk about suffering for your art.

wow, that sucks, the only thing that keeps me sane is guitar/bass, if I couldn't do that I'd go columbine the school or become an hero or something. That sucks

[Katastrophe]

Loud & Crunchy -

I don't know what to say about getting better with the wrist and hand injuries, except to call every doctor in the phone book until you find one that is willing to help you. Don't give up, if playing means that much to you. The music world is rife with stories of guitar players that overcame obstacles to master thier craft. Here's a few:

Django Reinhardt: could use only two fingers on his left hand.
Chris Poland: had to change the way he played due to a hand injury, but still sounds great.
Tony Iommi: already mentioned, but bears repeating.
Paul Simon: I know, not a shredder by any strech of the imagination, but almost quit playing guitar due to problems with a finger. He recovered and still plays.
Dave Mustaine: again already mentioned, but came back after hearing that he may never play again.

Just because one doctor said that he can't treat you doesn't mean necessarily that all doctors can't treat you. That's why they call it practicing medicine. Some practice more than others.

Also, look into changing guitars for something with a bigger neck and lighter strings to give you more leverage. A 24.75" scale guitar is going to give you a little help, too, over a Strat type with a 25.5" scale. I don't know what the scale length is on your Epoch...

Good luck, man, and heal up soon!

[warren0728]

here's another option!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSnUwA6c67k

ww