How To Play With Arthritis

Playing with any kind of disability is always going to be a challenge but for anyone with arthritis in your hands this may present extra issues.

Depending on where your arthritis is you may need to modify how you sit and hold yourself at the piano.

You may also want to consider factors like room heating and stretching before you play.

If your arthritis is severe then a digital piano may be an option as you can modify the sensitivity of the keys.

Lower Back:

1. Having a stool with a cushion to sit on may help or having a chair with a high back to support you may lessen discomfort
2. Make sure your chair is at the right height – have a look at stools with adjustable heights

Mid to Upper Back:

1. Avoid torso rotations by leaning or extending your arms out to reach needed keys.
2. Look for piano arrangements that utilise the middle section of the keyboard or play an octave in to eliminate stretching
3. Try to do some gentle stretching before you play

Wrists and Hands

1. Gently warm hands up in warm water if you need to get the circulation going
2. Rotate wrists in both direction a few times before expanding and contract your hands
3. Ensure your hand posture is correct so you don’t reach up to keys
4. Limit the amount of pressure you exert on the keys,allowing the weight of the shoulders and arms to help bring out the sound
5. If you can’t stretch to notes or chords, simply eliminate them or bring them into an octave you can comfortably reach