Hand Hurt Playing Guitar? Then this is the MOST IMPORTANT lesson to learn.

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  • Опубліковано 1 лют 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 393

  • @Twentace
    @Twentace 2 роки тому +1

    Probably the only video that gave me clear instructions after watching hundreds of others.

  • @jenduke-n9s
    @jenduke-n9s 5 років тому +43

    So I get my wrist pain very quickly everytime I play because I always curl my wrist and hold the guitar too close to me. THANK YOU for this video!

  • @sstevens6274
    @sstevens6274 5 років тому +23

    This video...particularly the "triangle" feels SO MUCH better than...trying to keep the guitar parallel to your body. My thumb really feels SO much better. Ty

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  5 років тому +2

      Glad it's working for you!

    • @quantumxfluxmd6821
      @quantumxfluxmd6821 3 роки тому

      Did you mean *perpendicular* to your body? Because I'm confused why would u ever have guitar "parallel " to your body? I just dont see how that would work.
      Nevertheless I'm glad to hear his techniques have helped your playing man! Keep jamming 🤘🤘🤘

    • @Aribeffr.-.
      @Aribeffr.-. 2 роки тому +2

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar ur an amazing teacher im watching u now... I hope this helps.... Wish me luck🤞🤞🤞

  • @michaelcerreto8645
    @michaelcerreto8645 6 років тому +5

    My left wrist and forearm were bothering me after practicing for a while. I made adjustments in the completely wrong direction and of course, it didn't help. Watched your video and made your recommended adjustments - no pain! Thank You so much.

  • @chasetheconnect8252
    @chasetheconnect8252 3 роки тому +6

    I cannot thank you enough for going in depth on the most simple thing, technique. We all need a mentor and technique is everything imo. I didn't have UA-cam as a teen and this is great to know your experience is responsible for shaving off hardships. Many blessings to you brother

  • @jurre83
    @jurre83 2 роки тому +2

    Great information. Been playing for 25 years and teaching for 11 years and de slouching is really becoming a problem. Always thought the pain was coming from my hands but its actually my posture.

  • @The_Jesmaybe
    @The_Jesmaybe 4 роки тому +3

    DUDE! Finally. I literally spent hours trying to find a way that was comfortable to play but also 'correct'. Everything I found was cramping my fret hand. I just had to change the angle of the guitar father away from me and more up. Thanks!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      Glad I could help! Be sure to check out my other videos where I go into more detail about the concepts I introduce here.

  • @adrianscott3116
    @adrianscott3116 Рік тому +1

    wow! a real game changer for me, so many instructors say the guitar must be flat across the body, this gave me pain and cramping in the heel of my thumb and palm, this video has helped tremendously. Bravo!!

  • @REALLYRANDOMREVIEW5
    @REALLYRANDOMREVIEW5 2 роки тому +1

    Such an old Video Helped me miles better than recent ones ! iv had guys chatting about changing the frigging Chord voicings etc THAT WONT Fix my clamp issue and Fatigue This is the best example iv seen and i noticed an imediate improvment playing just by sitting different and not twisting my guitar to see the fret board

  • @babdeli5189
    @babdeli5189 6 років тому +55

    Hey mate! Till this time this is the cleanest and most detailed explanation in this category I've found on youtube! Thank you so much! You deserves much-much more views!

  • @jayedevan567
    @jayedevan567 3 місяці тому

    Literally just spent nearly two months healing from pinched nerve in my neck down into my arm from holding the guitar parallel to my body...been looking up videos for the last couple days as I prepare to start playing again and found this...game changer 👊🏾🎸🔥

  • @jerihannah6785
    @jerihannah6785 Рік тому +3

    Thank you so very much for this video ! I’ve been playing for 50 years and this information you have provided is invaluable. I have already shared this video with my friends. Thank you again!

  • @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891
    @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891 4 роки тому +4

    This was actually the 1st video I ever watched & I have had some of the things u have said hit me as I have been having these problems. But I am watching this one yet again too. This one was a help then & still is.

  • @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891
    @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891 6 років тому +4

    This is the most helpful video that I have found! Thank u so very much! I am suffering from that now. I made alot of mistakes & then learned them. Now I am experiencing pain & was about to quit. But thanks!!!! Now I don't have to

  • @kilocide6242
    @kilocide6242 4 роки тому +1

    First day learning. Was cranking my wrist. Hurt instantly. This will help. Much appreciated.

  • @srinip
    @srinip 7 місяців тому

    Excellent video and channel; I just subscribed. I haven't watched the full video yet (I plan to, for sure!), so please excuse the premature comment. I do, in fact, have a severe hand issue - but it's in my picking hand. People may not expect this, but it has cut my chops down to about 50%- 60%. In my case, you have to factor in my age (69), and slowly developing arthritis. However, the most revealing piece of information I unearthed was my use of statins for the past 13 or 14 years. It's hard to know if they actually caused it, but they almost certainly pushed it over the edge.
    Good luck to you and all your viewers.

  • @SuperFloorshaker
    @SuperFloorshaker 6 років тому +3

    Thanks Kevin. My problem is back of the fretting hand exhaustion after playing repetitive 12-bar rhythms and I think it is a mixture of bad posture and poor guitar position. I think I will start to think more about wearing a strap to keep the neck up and the guitar higher than just sitting on my lap. Your way of thinking that the guitar should fit our bodies not the other way around is a very positive attitude and I hope to at least improve my weariness in my fretting hand by doing some of our suggestions. Cheers

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому

      Hey Chris. I do hope this helps. 12-bar rhythms were always a problem for me too. Keep in mind that there may still be a conditioning period -- like marathon runners training for a while before they try to run the whole 26 miles -- it's OK if it still takes a while. However, with good technique, you should be able to see some improvement sooner rather than later. Good luck!

    • @SuperFloorshaker
      @SuperFloorshaker 6 років тому

      Hi Kevin. Thanks for the speedy reply. I think it might also be that I am getting on in age (60s) and it might just be an old age thing lol! Also, I read somewhere that my generation were suffering in old age from having used computer keyboards all our lives, which hasn't done the tendons in the lower arms any good. That said, I will take some of your good advice and try to improve my posture and guitar positioning and keep on practising. Thanks for the great video! Cheers. Chris

  • @davidbartsch255
    @davidbartsch255 5 років тому +7

    Excellent! I’m a one week newbie playing. Two tips I enjoyed hearing. It’s not actually the finger tip, but the side of the finger tip. I was thinking I might be doing it wrong.
    The other tip I picked up- you are not pushing string into fret board, but into the fret itself. I think this will help me with finger positions. I have the D down, but the A is giving me fits!
    Thanks

  • @Ninjametal
    @Ninjametal 5 років тому +15

    I practice and play standing up, though some of your tips still apply. I think it's equally important to mentally recognize, then purposely release tension; as playing difficult things makes the body (especially hands/wrists) over tighten muscles. Relaxing them continuously really helps me stay comfortable.

  • @soniaterhovanessian7198
    @soniaterhovanessian7198 Рік тому

    Brilliant video. Will put into practice. Am currently suffering from thumb pain on the fretting side (am left-handed, so my right hand). Been playing for just over a year, but have fallen in love with this instrument and it's taken over my life! Haha. Anyway, really want to heal, am committed. I've had tendonitis, also in this thumb, so many times in my life, so it's nothing new unfortunately, but this is the current hurdle and challenge. Thanks. So far the best video I've seen on this by far!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  Рік тому

      Thanks! I hope it helps. I have more videos on my channel you may want to checkout, concerning ergonomics. One in particular is called Getting Control of Your Fretting Hand. As the name suggests, I go into more detail about how to use the fret hand so playing is less painful. Good luck!

  • @oldgraygal
    @oldgraygal 3 роки тому +1

    So helpful! elbow pain immediately reduced! thanks a bunch!

  • @nicolerossi2230
    @nicolerossi2230 4 роки тому +1

    This is the best video Ive seen about this!! Im at that 'learning all over again' stage.. I injured my left thumb really bad cause I used to push the back of the the neck 😩 Its been tough but actually worth it.. posture is everything, and def feels easier to play now

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому +1

      Glad I could help. Be sure to check out my other videos where I go more in-depth about the topics introduced here.

  • @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891
    @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891 4 роки тому +2

    I'll tell ya...this is such a good video that I have watched it more times than I can count since I found it. It's very very helpful...its my "go to" when I realize that I am back to my bad habits. Thank u K.O.!!!!!

  • @Dav2112
    @Dav2112 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks man, I'm dealing with tendonitis right now, always had neck and back issues from playing guitar but this is the first injury I've had in my hand from playing, I'm going to do proper warm ups and take the advice you've given in this video in future.

  • @z5e6
    @z5e6 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you so so much for this video, my left wrist has been acting up recently and I couldn't get rid of the pain for days. Hopefully it will stop coming back once I switch to the right method!

  • @CitoyenMundial
    @CitoyenMundial 4 роки тому

    Best...video... ever....for explaining how to hold the guitar so you don’t hurt yourself!!! *hugs* THANK YOU

  • @JohnSmith-er7rs
    @JohnSmith-er7rs 6 років тому +1

    This approach immediately resolved major forearm/wrist tension for me. Many thanks! Rotating the neck of the guitar away from the body was a particularly useful insight.

  • @canaryfive
    @canaryfive 6 років тому +1

    Thank you! I started lessons three weeks ago but my instructor did not go over how to hold the guitar or pick and as a result developed pain in my left shoulder after the first week. Now I'm able to pick up the guitar once more and want to do it correctly. Great video

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому

      I hope this does the trick. I have a few more videos on this subject with more on the way so feel free to explore the channel. Keep an eye on that shoulder though. A lot of times the issue can be solved with ergonomics but if it persists, it could be something more serious.

  • @yanis905
    @yanis905 28 днів тому +1

    This was immediately useful and put to practice!

  • @mutably
    @mutably 9 місяців тому

    For the last couple of years I've been struggling with some overuse syndrom in my left forearm, especially with my thumb. Every professionnal I've seen was unable to tell me what was my problem and how to cure it. I feel that your lesson has some interresting effects on the force I need to apply on my guitar neck, I'll keep doing this for some months. I swear if this doesn't work on me I'll just ditch guitar forever.

  • @CTPSenpai
    @CTPSenpai 3 роки тому

    Holy crap tis is so simple I didn't even think about it. Bless you, man!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  3 роки тому +1

      Don't feel bad. It took me 15 years of playing before I figured it out. :) I'm glad this is helpful.

  • @rolandjgutierrez4147
    @rolandjgutierrez4147 3 роки тому

    I'll tell you after this video when I watched it over a year ago now pain free its true what you instructed I could not play no more I did not want surgery.after I watched and implemented this the instructions pain free. thank you now I'm a rocknroll star when I'm dreaming..Roland J Gutierrez from Magdalena New Mexico USA
    .

  • @jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988
    @jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988 2 роки тому +1

    Great post! What works for me when I'm seated is the classical guitar style / foot stool method and classical posture including hand placement.

  • @cara2966
    @cara2966 8 місяців тому

    instant results man!!!....I could not fret quite amazingly but there has been huge improvement.... Thanks 😊

  • @blairhelsing630
    @blairhelsing630 4 роки тому +2

    Newbie player here. This video was very helpful to me. Thanks!

  • @reidherring145
    @reidherring145 4 роки тому +2

    Man, it's like you had in your mind every doubt I had while playing. Thank you so much for this video👍

  • @shamslife9182
    @shamslife9182 3 роки тому +2

    2021 . Still the best video !
    Thanks buddy 🌻

  • @armandomonge7858
    @armandomonge7858 3 роки тому +1

    incredibly helpful, my hand and myself appreciate you!

  • @DLawrenceMarketing
    @DLawrenceMarketing 6 років тому +6

    I must try your recommendations. I have a painful thumb joints.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому +2

      Yeah, I hear that often. That probably comes from improper placement and too much pressure playing the notes. Hope this helps.

  • @dhudach
    @dhudach 4 роки тому

    I just stumbled on this today. This REALLY helped me. I'm a beginner, 1 year and mostly practicing chords. The issue I have been struggling with is when playing a chord, I would be pulling the neck in slightly, when I would release to change chords, the neck would pop out causing me to grab it, pull it back in to play the next chord. This messed up everything: timing, muting the bottom string, forming the next chord shape, etc, etc. I think the issue is that I was holding the guitar parallel to my body rather than having the neck at the outward the angle discussed here. I tried the new posture today and it has already made a difference. So now it's time to unlearn old habits and make appropriate improvements and adjustments.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      Hi David. Welcome to the community! I'm glad to hear this lesson has been helpful for you. I have plenty more on the channel--many of which focus on mechanical challenges we all have to deal with at some point or another. Feel free to have a look around and hit me up in the comments if you have any questions.

    • @dhudach
      @dhudach 4 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Thanks. I subscribed and already started to look at your posts. Thanks again.

  • @bucktv254
    @bucktv254 7 років тому +4

    Wow I don't think I've seen anyone showing how to hold a guitar at an angle! I see guitar videos with people who are sitting holding the guitar parallel across their body, but I've seen players curling their fingers which feels more natural anyway!

  • @stephaniedodt2389
    @stephaniedodt2389 5 років тому +3

    This totally solved the problem in minutes!

  • @olaftrader
    @olaftrader 2 роки тому +1

    Thankyou for helping me. Great detail in your explanation. Much appreciated as I was struggling.

  • @gabbishleegifted4752
    @gabbishleegifted4752 5 років тому +1

    As a health and fitness specialist I co-sign 👍
    Two seconds after trying this neutral positioning I immediately felt the difference and benefit. Kind of upset with myself for not figuring out angling the guitar is how you allow proper alignment of the joints. I’m new to guitar but no excuses lol.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  5 років тому +3

      Don't be so hard on yourself. I was playing for 15 years before I figured it out. Haha! Glad you found this useful.

    • @VasilyGurzhiy
      @VasilyGurzhiy 2 роки тому +1

      ​@@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Holly molly!! While trying it I kept in mind, "understanding this of would take 10 guitar lessons otherwise". When I took guitar, somehow, 80% percent of problems related to inability to make playing easy ha a solution in a specific position. I've never thought about moving my body so much while playing. But now I realize, that I saw this from other guitarist, the problem was that I perceived it as some kind of unnecessary moves, maybe even as showing off.
      So that is a perfect description of how it feels to know it after a few months of playing guitar after 7 years of playing balalaika!(russian folk 3 strings instrument) Because I have got used to push 3 string only and because frets are very close to each other - I've got used to using all of my grabbing power on it for best sounding, and I got on a good playing level by usingfront part of my fingers only.
      I've tried playing guitar for a few weeks multiple times for past 2 years. But I never felt like I'm progresing much, so I've always stoped playing. Now, knowing this I feel like I can easily go on pretty high level.
      Mentioning a reason why posture is that way (to make balance easier) was a great idea too.
      If anybody ask me what's most important think to know about playing guitar, I'd definitely refer to this video. (Couldn't sound more commercial. But that's what role it really plays in my guitar progress), I can finally play guitar without constantly focusing on how to clamp the notes. Thank you very much Kevin!

  • @chrisstrobel3439
    @chrisstrobel3439 6 років тому +14

    In the 60's when I started playing guitar, on into the 70's and even 80's nobody had hand problems from playing guitar ..... even from bad posture, and nobody had hand problems from typing on manual typewriters either. Only since computers have become mainstream and doctors started coining the term RSI 'repetitive stress injury' have I seen hand injuries in musicians become an epidemic. I was a studio musician in Los Angeles/Orange County, and have worked with MANY musicians over the years .. none who ever had RSI back then. The pioneering work of Dr. John Sarno M.D. of New York University Medical Center/Rusk institute of rehabilitation medicine, has written several books regarding his decades of clinical research regarding the mindbody connection and chronic pain conditions including those of so called 'RSI', and if you have come to this video because your hands hurt chronically from guitar playing, piano playing, etc., I highly recommend reading his books before giving in to defeat. Tension Myoneural Syndrome .. not your guitar playing .. may very well be the culprit, and there is a fix. P.S. Btw I'm not affiliated with them or any other doctors or rehab clinics, publishers, etc., just an aging musician who wants to help. Rock on 🎸

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому +1

      Sounds like an awesome resource. I'll have to check it out. Thanks for recommending it.

  • @Dfgysc
    @Dfgysc 3 роки тому

    outstanding u play just one note and teach a lesson for a lifetime of guitar playing

  • @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891
    @mrs.hollerbredkennels-jana7891 4 роки тому

    I believe that I have watched this AT LEAST 7x. You have an ability to teach this in a fashion thats so understandable & detailed. I find myself going back to the things that I did the 1st 2 years of playing though. Thats why I come back to this video ever so often. Thanks so much AGAIN for this video.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому +1

      It takes time to break habits like that. Your dedication is awesome. Keep up the good work!

  • @theisaac8656
    @theisaac8656 Рік тому

    Very interesting video, thank you for sharing... I have been playing for 10 years and hit a rut with my physical ability a few years ago. Definitely seems like my posture and technique are the issue.
    Trying to play in the correct position, it feels great, but my goodness its almost like learning from the start all over again 😄

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  Рік тому +1

      It's really true. I went through the same feeling of starting over again. I found it didn't take as long as it did the first time though.

  • @lauratruax8598
    @lauratruax8598 Рік тому +1

    This was so, so helpful. Thank you.

  • @williamburrows6006
    @williamburrows6006 2 роки тому

    So glad I found your video. I have been struggling with bending my wrist around the neck, but your guitar positioning explanations make perfect sense. Thanks

  • @Dutchtraordinary_Living
    @Dutchtraordinary_Living 4 роки тому +1

    My biggest take-away from this video which I have found especially useful for bar cords:
    Push the strings into the metal of the fret (so at a bit of an angle) instead of pressing your index finger on the wood of the neck in a perpendicular fashion.
    Thanks for this lesson!

  • @Benjamin-Grill
    @Benjamin-Grill Рік тому

    You explained that so clearly and logically. Many Thanks!

  • @jeffreyjhouser
    @jeffreyjhouser 3 роки тому

    Great explanation! I'm going to work on my posture and guitar position to improve my playing and comfort.

  • @seanohara1718
    @seanohara1718 3 роки тому

    ive been playing wrong for months, thank you so much

  • @SaltyCatCrisps
    @SaltyCatCrisps 2 роки тому

    The first part of this video is just great advice for life!!! Thanks Kevin! Such a great explanation of why posture is important! Love it. Also, great video for posture with regards to guitar!

  • @angusdevine7045
    @angusdevine7045 3 роки тому

    Wow!! That was the most helpful guitar video, it has made my guitar playing so much easier, Thanks!!

  • @Simplicity1207
    @Simplicity1207 2 роки тому

    Watching this i just realized for the past 3 months of learning i was actually doin it wrong 😅, thanks to u my man! God bless you!

  • @STNMinc
    @STNMinc 3 роки тому +2

    yo. i was pulling the guitar flat to my belly, but now its taken a drastic Angus young unicorn position that is way more comfy. now for the tendinitis to subside so I actually can play again. thanx

  • @kurttnio8859
    @kurttnio8859 2 роки тому +1

    Yo Kevin Thank you so much ! I feel so relax now

  • @Trippsy05
    @Trippsy05 Рік тому

    Aside from needing to fix my posture, something that did help me a lot with thumb fatigue/pain was lowering string action a ton. My last guitar went almost a year without a truss rod, intonation, or action adjustment as I didn't know how to fix it, and it just went out of whack over time. Wasn't until I picked up my second guitar that I learned how to maintain it.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  Рік тому

      That's great that you got that fixed. Having the wrong action on your guitar can cause all sorts of problems.

  • @kachiko6874
    @kachiko6874 3 роки тому

    Thanks it helps! It ease my wrist pain. Thank you very much

  • @irishcanuck1271
    @irishcanuck1271 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks so much, this was very helpful.

  • @johnatkin8732
    @johnatkin8732 2 роки тому

    Great - just coming to accoustic from classical guitar - a super tutorial - thanks again

  • @shashanksherkar392
    @shashanksherkar392 5 років тому +1

    I am suffering from Golfer's arm injury on my left hand which is my fretting hand. It did not start due to guitar but a bike pulling out of mud. After 4 week's rest the pain subsided but as I started to play again to finish my pending album the pain returned in 3 days.
    I play with an ESP LTD AX-50 guitar which has the X shape of BC Rich Warbeast or Warlock types. So it's not exactly possible to follow all your procedure. I need to rest it in between my 2 legs due to its shape. I don't slouch, have enough body and finger exercises, warm up before playing. Incidentally, my thumb is almost parallel as you showed. The only thing that needs to be fixed is upward angle of my left hand. I will do it. Thanks for a detailed explanation.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  5 років тому

      That sounds like a lot to work through. The only other thing I can suggest (and I'm NOT a doctor) is to really be flexible with the positioning of everything. I offer a starting point in this video but everyone's body is a little different so adjustments must be made. I'd also like to mention that there's a possibility 4 weeks was not enough time for the injury to fully heal. Be patient. It may take months before you're back up to full strength. Good luck!

    • @shashanksherkar392
      @shashanksherkar392 5 років тому

      ​@@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Thanks. I will learn a DAW in the mean time and do some sound engineering research I desperately need. Both these things would not be as demanding on those hurt muscles as guitar playing itself. I will post a link to my album in the replies if you allow me .

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  5 років тому

      Please do! I look forward to hearing it. Good luck!

    • @shashanksherkar392
      @shashanksherkar392 5 років тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Thanks. Assume it will be ready by Christmas or before. Only 1 song is to be recorded, 7 are ready.

    • @shashanksherkar392
      @shashanksherkar392 5 років тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar The Novice Fumes - Vultures Around
      ua-cam.com/video/CH69tQgx4Gs/v-deo.html
      Please check the album and leave comments.
      I am recovering from Golfer's elbow. By next week I would start practicing, at a lower tempo not my favourite 144 bpm.

  • @calvindsouza7440
    @calvindsouza7440 6 років тому

    Thank you so much for this lesson. I will obviously take time to adapt to proper posture after having improper posture for as lonh as I've played guitar (8 months), but my hand was under much less tension while playing in the manner you taught, so thank you! Looking forward to more material from you!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому +1

      I'm glad you found it helpful. More is on the way. Is there anything you'd like to learn more about? Leave me a note here and I can make a video about it.

    • @calvindsouza7440
      @calvindsouza7440 6 років тому

      Hi, Kevin! Thanks for the response! As I've already stated, I've been playing for 8 months now, but I haven't particularly set a practice routine for myself, if you could share yours and give me an idea about it, that would be awesome! Also, I've watched a few videos about the Hendrix/Frusciante triads but haven't been able to understand that part fully. So, a video about that would be nice, too! Thanks so much!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому +1

      Absolutely. I'll start working on it. Thanks for the suggestion.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  6 років тому

      Hey Calvin. Sorry it took me so long but here's a brief description of my practice routine. You can click the link here: ua-cam.com/video/4Uh72kWhkA0/v-deo.html
      I hope you find it helpful. Let me know if you have any questions.

  • @preciousmousse
    @preciousmousse 2 роки тому

    When I had my first lessons with my ex guitar teacher I asked him how I should sit. Ended up with a sprained knuckle a lil over two months ago after a year and a half of playing in an awful posture. Thank you for these great and very necessary tips! Us musicians need to be in great shape and this is unfortunately not common sense for all

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  2 роки тому +1

      You're right; it's not common sense. I had similar issues early on. I'm glad this helped!

  • @Grahamgoudie
    @Grahamgoudie 4 роки тому

    Best lesson on posture I’ve seen. Thank you!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      My pleasure. I'm glad you found it useful Feel free to explore the channel. I have more videos on posture as well as other mechanical challenges.

  • @angelarisigo1636
    @angelarisigo1636 4 роки тому

    What a great teacher you are! Really great stuff!

  • @Jamiesneddon
    @Jamiesneddon 3 роки тому

    Thank you for the video. Best info I have found about correct sitting position. Hopefully this will sort the pain I get in the muscles at the back of my hand. Especially when playing power chord on the first fret using the low e string. Once again. Thanks.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  3 роки тому

      Glad it's helpful. Feel free to watch the other videos on my channel where I go more in depth on the concepts introduced here.

  • @michaelhinze3368
    @michaelhinze3368 4 роки тому +1

    Great and very helpful video. Thanks for that! I'm struggling with a bad posture myself. Do you have similar tips for the right hand?

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      Thanks. I'm glad you found it helpful. Any of the "pickslanting" videos focus on right hand technique. The terminology is borrowed from Troy Grady's show "Cracking the Code". His work is absolutely amazing in this field. My approach is to demonstrate how to adapt his observations to suit your own playing style. If you have specific questions, hit me up.

  • @caseybourquepga
    @caseybourquepga 4 роки тому +1

    Outstanding Kevin...this is extremely helpful info. Any special considerations/suggestions for barre chords?

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      Hi Casey. I'm glad this is helping. If you haven't seen my video on left hand technique, start there.
      Here's the link: ua-cam.com/video/incUdhZigHA/v-deo.html
      If that doesn't address your specific issues, leave a comment about it and I'll answer it in a new video.
      Barre chords do take time to develop so be patient.
      Good luck!

  • @gregpowers4208
    @gregpowers4208 7 років тому +2

    Great lesson. Thanks, has really helped make playing more comfortable.

  • @bodamani
    @bodamani 2 роки тому

    thanks. i ran across this video by accident, but it was exactly what i needed. 👍🏾

  • @kd_kissed
    @kd_kissed 2 роки тому

    Very helpful Kevin! I have a lot of problems with a sore thumb of the fretting hand, because of pressing it much against the back of the guitar. Also I loose agility because of that. Have you a tip or an exercise to solve that problem for me please? Thanks for your great video and help here!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  2 роки тому

      If you haven't done so already, I recommend you check out this video: ua-cam.com/video/incUdhZigHA/v-deo.html. In it, I discuss the way the hand works and how you can work with that to make guitar playing more comfortable. It will take time but with consistent practice you should be able to relieve your sore thumb. Good luck!

    • @kd_kissed
      @kd_kissed 2 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Thank you for your quick answer! I will try it out.

  • @seanbarker4208
    @seanbarker4208 4 роки тому +1

    Great reminders and explanations! Thank you.

  • @laurenthurlow
    @laurenthurlow 2 роки тому +1

    this was so helpful!!!

  • @tommyvasquez111
    @tommyvasquez111 7 років тому +1

    Thank you--I very much appreciate the direction.

  • @DrUmSensitive
    @DrUmSensitive 4 роки тому

    My hand is much smaller than yours. I can't wrap my fist around the neck like you can. So your advice, no matter how great, still don't help my situation, unfortunately. My pains are immense, the doctors don't help much, I have started using different plastic and rubber tools to exercise. That helps a bit. I hope in a while the combination of the two (following your advice and using these rubber and plastic tools to "heal" my hands) will yield the results I long for. Thanks!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      It's true: you do have to adapt the technique to your own physical characteristics. I have two questions: What kind of guitar are you playing? And what kind of music are you playing? Fenders and Gibsons have different scale lengths (Gibson is smaller) so that can help a lot. And the style of music may allow for different chord voicings or alternate tunings that can help you create a unique sound. Eddie Van Halen for example started on piano. As such many of his riffs essentially use piano voicings on the guitar instead of typical open chords or power chords.

    • @DrUmSensitive
      @DrUmSensitive 4 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar I am a schooled pianist and drummer, trying to learn guitar (by myself) for over 25 years because I have relatively stiff fingers and joints. I always wanted to be able to play guitar, but only recently decided it is absolutely necessary because my hands are getting worse. Along with physical therapy, playing guitar is helping immensely. I am currently using a cheap classical guitar, but in my studio I also own an Ibanez electroacoustic, a Squier Strat and a vintage Diamond (Ibanez) Les Paul. In the last month or two I've progressed more than (slacking, I admit) the last 20 years. I just want to learn chords and especially funk and soul guitar one day. 😊 Actually, my goal is to learn proper technique, the rest is just practice, practice, practice. 😊

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому +1

      @@DrUmSensitive Gotcha. You've probably noticed that the classical guitar necks are typically wider than electric or steel-string acoustic necks. It might be a good idea to switch to one of the electrics for the time being. If the classical guitar is more the sound you're going for, maybe a 3/4 scale would do the trick. Yamaha makes a good quality guitar that's very affordable. Hope that helps.

    • @DrUmSensitive
      @DrUmSensitive 4 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar I decided to "go classical" because the strings are softer, that eliminates at least one problem with stiff fingers. I am not about sound, right now, just trying to fix my wrists and fingers. One day I'll play my Strat, Les Paul and probably buy a Tele. Technique is the key, now. Any ideas about exercises for "invalids" like me? :-)

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      Believe it or not, the first thing I would suggest is to switch to the Strat. Get it set up with .008 gauge strings and a low action and you won't have to press very hard at all to get a good tone out of each note. You could also check out this video (ua-cam.com/video/incUdhZigHA/v-deo.html) to help with the fret hand technique. I would also look up some forearm stretches since that's where the muscles are that control the fingers. Let me know if you have any questions.

  • @lindenrosam4781
    @lindenrosam4781 4 роки тому

    Wow that’s helped a lot thank you for taking the time to demonstrate and explain.

  • @Macilious
    @Macilious 6 років тому +4

    that was pretty cool , thank you , i've been having these shit pains between my thumb and index finguer also the wrist , it sucks , now that you mentioned how to actually do it right and pick the right position with the right basics , i can understand it better.
    thank you.

  • @singmysong4444
    @singmysong4444 3 роки тому

    Well done.... straight to the point and nicely presented.... Bravo !!

  • @nishatmunshi4672
    @nishatmunshi4672 2 роки тому +1

    Very helpful. thank you sir.

  • @tm1180
    @tm1180 8 місяців тому

    For many yesrs I thought all those things you mention in the beginning, I found out 10 yrs later I had axonal polyneuropathy and it felt like I had to fight for every note, self diagnosis would be, if your doing say, your scale exercises and suddenly your arms feel stiff like they turned into wood, when I told that to my Neurologist he immediately knew I had a demyelinating autoimmune disease. It's just a public service announcement. I hope it helps anyone out there with similar issues

  • @drzyton4970
    @drzyton4970 Рік тому

    Velmi užitečné video.Děkujeme.

  • @bertvlaeminck7776
    @bertvlaeminck7776 4 роки тому

    Thx for your Video! I will definitely try your Suggestions. My wrist always hurts while playing so far.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      I hope it helps. Be sure to look at the other videos on my channel where I go more in depth about these subjects. Let me know if you have any questions and good luck!

  • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
    @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  8 років тому +119

    Have you found it helpful?

    • @Chrisorocks
      @Chrisorocks 6 років тому +11

      Best video I have seen on this often over looked issue. Been playing for two months and have bad posture and wrist pain. Will reset my style from today as this makes so much sense. Thank you!

    • @rockngpa5094
      @rockngpa5094 6 років тому +2

      It’s good to be reminded to break our bad daily habits...
      After a long hiatus myself I’m playing again • thanks for tips! 🎸

    • @zoth1977
      @zoth1977 5 років тому +4

      Kevin O'Shaughnessy Thank you, that really helped, I was starting to worry about my hand, adjusting my guitar to fall on my hand was the trick, I need to work on my posture though, not easy when you are acostumed to slouch.

    • @HudiKowalsky
      @HudiKowalsky 5 років тому

      Kevin O'Shaughnessy excellent and useful tutorial Thank you!

    • @copterscrawlersplanesrcpac9225
      @copterscrawlersplanesrcpac9225 5 років тому +3

      Thanks much, this is needed info, I'm battling Carpal Tunnel from playing all wrong, with terrible posture and my wrist at extreme angles.

  • @Cheinrichs777
    @Cheinrichs777 3 роки тому

    Great video, thanks for posting this. Do you have any tips for the picking hand and forearm?

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  3 роки тому +1

      Hi Cooper. Yes, I do. Go to the "Guitar Lessons" playlist and you'll find lessons featuring different types of pick slanting, much of which is based on the incredible work of Troy Grady. If you want really in-depth tutorials specifically about picking, check out his show, "Cracking the Code".

    • @Cheinrichs777
      @Cheinrichs777 3 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Sorry I wrote that poorly, I meant to ask about pain specifically

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  3 роки тому

      @@Cheinrichs777 I don't have anything like that at the moment.To tell you the truth, in my experience it doesn't seem to be that common. What's your specific issue?

    • @Cheinrichs777
      @Cheinrichs777 3 роки тому

      @@KevinOShaughnessyGuitar Yeah I'm kinda having trouble finding more info on it, that's why I reached out. I'm grateful for your interest/help! I'm in a technique overhaul after I realized I was bouncing my pick just like Troy says in one his videos. When I practice my alternate picking speed for maybe ten minutes, I get pain on the back of my picking hand and up my forearm. I also seem to get tightness in my shoulder picking side as well. I'm working on a downward pick slant, and when I try upwards it seems to be worse.

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  3 роки тому

      @@Cheinrichs777 This sounds to me like simple overuse. 10 minutes is a lot of time to spend on speed picking. Even taking a few breaks in between doesn't give you enough rest time.
      I've found the most effective thing is to craft exercises that mimic how experienced guitarists use speed picking (generally). For example, you might try creating a 4-bar phrase and put your speed picking lick in 1 of those bars. The other bars should be composed mostly of long note values. Then you can vary the tempo or increase it to 2 bars of speed picking in the phrase.
      If you think about the fastest solo you've heard, how long does it last? 30 seconds? Maybe a minute? it's not a long time. Even in Speed Metal rhythm parts there are almost always parts of the song composed with longer note values.
      Following this should get you on your way. If you find that you hit a wall with your speed, it could be an orientation issue. Troy does a great video on pickers like EVH using an angled wrist while speed picking that I found very useful. That could be the next step.
      Let me know if this is helpful and good luck!

  • @tanmaysinghal8370
    @tanmaysinghal8370 4 роки тому

    You are very much underated bro

  • @Elecerv
    @Elecerv 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you for this!

  • @sparstangled
    @sparstangled 5 років тому +4

    I am a beginner (about 2 months in) practicing an hour a day and my thumb has been in so much pain. I've watched several thumb/position videos and this was the one that helped me. Thank you!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  5 років тому +5

      Glad it helped. The other thing I might suggest since you're only two months in is to drop your practice time to about a half-hour for now. Make sure that you're not getting hit with muscle fatigue as well. If a half-hour is really easy and you have no pain, then play until it starts to hurt. Make a note of how long that was, back it off by 5 minutes and that's your new practice schedule. Keep at it and remember that almost every problem you encounter on the guitar will be mechanical and will have a solution. Good luck!

    • @joyofsox
      @joyofsox Рік тому

      I'm in my first week and having thumb discomfort. So this is good news.

  • @derekhaddock1227
    @derekhaddock1227 4 роки тому +1

    excellent tutorial,thanks kevin .peace

  • @DouArtShi
    @DouArtShi 4 роки тому

    This is extremely helpful for me, a beginner. Thank you.

  • @ingemarnilsson5498
    @ingemarnilsson5498 2 роки тому

    Very good information.

  • @michaelbobson9198
    @michaelbobson9198 4 роки тому

    Awesome lesson!!
    Thanks Kevin!

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  4 роки тому

      My pleasure! Be sure to check out my other videos where I go into more detail about the topics introduced here.

  • @jasper_north
    @jasper_north 3 роки тому

    Using wrist grips...awesome gear!

  • @jakubsach8431
    @jakubsach8431 29 днів тому

    Thank you for the video, it seems to be helping me. I've been playing guitar for a year and my left shoulder (deltoid muscles) has been hurting since I started. After a year it is much better, but I would like to get rid of the shoulder pain for good and enjoy playing. Have you experienced shoulder pain and if so what do you recommend? I know it's not easy to help me from a distance. Thank you

    • @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar
      @KevinOShaughnessyGuitar  29 днів тому

      @@jakubsach8431 Try this video: How to Use Your Shoulder To Improve Your Playing
      ua-cam.com/video/9A1wSwBzqT4/v-deo.html
      I found it a lot easier to find a pain free orientation when I learned how my shoulder actually worked. This video is a speed-reader’s guide to the shoulder that may help you isolate your particular issue. If you have any questions after that, hit me up in the comments.

  • @watchfan6180
    @watchfan6180 2 роки тому

    Extremely helpful

  • @mrkrabs2095
    @mrkrabs2095 3 місяці тому

    You saved my life thank you

  • @lukedickow6392
    @lukedickow6392 4 роки тому

    Very helpful! Thanks, man!

  • @hayleylaura8818
    @hayleylaura8818 3 роки тому

    This changes everything. Thank you for this informative content :D