If this happens more when you’re playing standing up try raising the strap, yeah it doesn’t look as “cool”, but it’s worth it to avoid tendonitis.

Look at your string gauge and the over all action.  Heavy strings and high action can also be a factor.

Try thinking about the strength or “energy” as coming from the bicep as opposed to the forearm or wrist.  The bicep is much stronger that those other two muscle areas.  This has helped me as well.

If you are inclined to start a weight training program make sure that you do wrist curls, both underhand and over hand.  This will help to strengthen the forearm and reduce the chance of strain or other injury.

Hand size is also factor.  I taught lessons for many years and all my students with small hands had more issues with cramping than those with large hands and long fingers. (As you may have guessed I have relatively small hands.)  They eventually found ways to overcome or get around the cramping and discomfort, just like you will.  Playing scales, and other hand and finger exercises definitely helped as well.

Keep practicing but remember, DON’T PLAY THRU A CRAMP.  Follow the above guidelines and in time you should be able to play barres with less discomfort.

Lou Lombardi

www.yourguitarist.com

Band Site:

www.llstrangelove.com