The Steel Guitar Forum

I just got my new lap steel. been playing around with it for only 15 min. or so and my wrist is killing me. now I can play Bass or guitar for a few hours with only minor pain.( I have the Gout in my Wrists about 3 times a year) I hope that this gout didn't cause permanent damage. Anyone else feel this pain?

Playing bass and armpit guitar is not the same as playing lap steel.

Your bar wrist is probably bent back and now it is revolting. Slow and easy and you will develop the wrist dexterity/flexibility that is needed.

Check and see how hard you're gripping the bar. If all's set up well, you should be able to just "cradle" the bar between the thumb and middle finger, using just a bit of downward pressure with the index finger to get clean notes. If you're "death-gripping" the bar, that could cause problems.

I made this little video 7 years ago, hopefully it can help some folks.

Bar Control Video < Click<

I really think pain is not normal. The only time I get pain from practicing is when for example I started learning pedal steel, I focused so hard on the pedal that I forget to keep a good posture. Or when playing Dobro and picking too hard and get pain in my right thump.

You should always be relax, good posture, picking light and dont use much pressure on the bar and dont use your wrist to do slant, use your fingers.

Look videos of Jerry Byrds and try to have the same technic!

With good technic you should be able to practice all day without any pain.

I notice that I sometimes squeeze the bar or tighten up my left arm when playing, especially if it's something new I'm learning. Also happens if I'm playing a gig and I'm nervous about something I'm playing. When I notice that happening, I have to concentrate on relaxing my arm/hand, making sure my bar hand position is good.

There should be no pain involved with the physical mechanics of playing steel guitar.

Find another Bar that is suitable for you.

I highly recommend a Shubb SP1

For control, grip, length and weight

Still waiting for my Paloma Stone slide since last year beginning of December. I'll let you know how it is if it ever arrives.