I've had strong pains in my left elbow and I've had to take it easy for several months. Doc says is may be Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) since I spend many hours a day typing for work, but after my first practice session in months on the tabla yeserterday I could feel it pulling again.
I haven't seen my tabla teacher in a long time so I'm posting here to see if anyone else has any experience with muscular injuries from practicing repetitive strokes.
I also have the feeling that the height of the bayan could be aggrevating my arm due to unnatural posture. Any advice or words of wisdom would be appreciated.
I had a problem for a while with mild RSI as I used to do a lot of typing with two fingers, pounding the keyboard heavily with my index fingers. I began to have difficulty playing the tabla - particularly the note TA. I had to leave off for a while and change my typing style.
The good news is that I now have no symptoms at all and can play happily on my tabla without the slightest twinge.
This may not be any help to you but, God willing, you will have a similarly positive recovery.
Best wishes
I've had some muscle tension in my right arm in the last few months, but with the help of a physiotherapist, it's all under control now.
I strongly reccomend that musicians go to see a reputable SPORTS PHYSIO. They are used to dealing with all sorts of problems related to repetitive movements. They'll have some stretches and exercises for you to repair what's wrong, and to prevent further injury.
