my clarinet hurts my thumb...

[christine612]

i have a big big problem..
i'm a full time pianist, part time clarinetist, and my right thumb is usually in pain when i play clarinet because of the weight.. and i'm getting really worried..
i do have a soft rubber thingie around my thumb rest, but that's not helping with the weight..
and i was thinking of maybe getting a clarinet neck strap (i know i'll look stupid), but my clarinet doesn't have a hook
any suggestions?

[Bob]

Get a neckstrap.  It's the latest trend for clarinets.  You'll be on the cutting edge that way.  Just like the saxes.

Hold some of the weight of the instrument with you fingers if they press keys down and have a firm embouchure (lip muscles) to help support the instrument.