Shaky hands / tremors

[Loraine]

Hi @801dda – I’ve only dealt with shaky hands/tremors occasionally, but it’s not a constant matter. Other than meditation, relaxation techniques, being well rested and maintaining my diet to keep my blood sugar level, I can’t say I have a solution. If it’s a constant matter, you may want to speak with a neurologist.

[801dda]

Thanks Loraine. I probably should be more mindful about what I’m eating and blood sugar levels. I’ll pay more attention.

[N-lightMike]

Also, @801dda , there are guitar specific stretches that Tony teaches in one of the skills courses. Stretching may help quite a bit. But it would depend on what was actually causing the shakiness.

I hope you find something that works so you can continue to enjoy your guitar journey.

MG 😀

[801dda]

Thanks Mike, I’ll check it out.

[jumpinjeff]

@801dda , do you know the cause of the tremors? Are they at all times while playing or just sometimes? Do they increase when complexity is introduced or when forced straining as a result of new positions encountered are attempted?

[801dda]

Always have had shaky hands but getting worse as I get older. Doc says not Parkinson’s, more of essential tremors. Ironically they get worse the more I try to focus on being calm and smooth with fretting hand or picking.

[jumpinjeff]

@801dda , sorry to hear. I have always been a member of the good hands club but my shakiness is mild and does not interfere with my playing. But I really have to make sure my tension is managed. If I get any adrenaline forget it….I can barely play.

Is there anything you do with your hands (talking about outside of playing too) where you don’t have the tremors or are they always present regardless of task? I ask because in some instances focusing on the larger muscles of the back and chest to stabilize the arms can be helpful. Sometimes we can take the smaller muscles out of play. Those are the ones that give me fits at times.

[Ukulelebug]

Carbidopa-Levodopa. Deep Brain Stimulation has been very successful for essential tremor. Stay well rested and take frequent breaks. jumpinjeff mentioned managing tension… strongly agree and never give up. If able, visit a major university medical center for a neurologist.