Can Playing the Piano Cause Carpal Tunnel Symptoms?
I was contacted by Jeanne, a serious student of piano who has developed carpal tunnel symptoms. She doesn’t want to quit playing her piano but is having problems keeping up with her work because of her carpal tunnel pain. She told me that her teacher was helping her with correct positioning of her arms and hands. Often, when we have carpal tunnel pain, there is much more going on than most people realize. Here is my response to Jeanne. Well, first I’ll address the proper positioning of your arms. Realize that I have absolutely no knowledge of piano playing, only of how a body develops carpal tunnel and other pain symptoms. To prevent carpal tunnel pain, just like working at a desk, your back should be straight, no hunching allowed. You need to sit with your natural curve at the back of your waist (tummy sticking out a bit.) Your head should be over your shoulders, not in front of your body. Your elbows should be close to your waist, but I know they will move around a lot. Better to mov
