Pinky Problems

[FodForThoought]

The past couple days I've been working on using my pinky more (just smalls things like using the 7th fret instead of an open string). I've noticed my left forearm as gotten pretty sore, not painfully sore, not even sore enough to keep me from playing. My question is, is this soreness normal, or could is it being caused by some sort of poor technique?

[Paul Edwards]

I would say that it's just working those muscles in your forearm.. It's neat to watch them move while you're playing sometimes.. But I could be wrong.. I'm no expert on the matter

[Grommet]

Not sure how long you are practicing per each session, but if are just begining to use the 4th finger, then a little forearm muscle disconfort might not be unexpected. Can't say as I remember that happening though. Make sure you aren't pressing the strings down too firmly (fret jobs are costly). Certainly a little soreness of the pinky fingertip will be noticed. I suggest you listen to your body, take a break, try a little more later the same day. No use being in a hurry as it will be a while to buid the callous on finger #4. But very worthwhile. I like Ted's (JazzMando) FFcP excercises for this.

Scott

[Turnip Mountain Picker]

I always warm up with first position scales using the piny to cover the seventh fret instead of open strings. I do this slow and slowly progress to only a moderate speed. Pretty much like you describe. It takes a while, months to work the picky into shape. Ive worked thoough elbow pain, finger pain, pain in my wrists and a back pain. They are all gone now, and I think its better because of time and warming up more now.

[Denny Gies]

Probably not a matter of technique; just keep at it and it will come naturally. Take two aspirin and call me in the morning.

[JeffD]

oops

[JeffD]

Don't try to reach it with the pinky alone. I mean you are allowed to angle and move your hand a bit too.

For example, plan your first finger on a fret. Now lets say you need to reach way up the neck with your pinky. Don't try it all the way with just your pinky, but spread all your fingers. Stay planted. By spreading all your fingers you move the center of your hand, making it easier for your pinky.

Another thing you might try is to shadow your pinky with the ring finger on the fret below. Adds strength.

The pinky can get exhausted trying to do it all.

[JRcohan]

I think some soreness is natural. You are working hand muscles that are underused. Taking short breaks during practice sessions as well as shaking your wrist out and running it under warm water helps. As your pinky gets stronger, like any muscle, less soreness occurs.

Jake