What's wrong with my elbow?

[mrbach1]

Hello,

Last year, while I was practicing Rach's Op 32 N12, I felt a strange pain in my right elbow.  I should mention that during this time I was - on a daily basis - playing hours of Starcraft, lifting weights, and playing darts.

I ignored the pain and pushed through.  I then felt my fingers had lost strength and the pain wasn't going away - so I decided to take a break for a week.  When I returned to the piano the pain was still there.  To cut a long story short I spent the next 8 months in Asia, away from any piano playing, and stopped using my right hand for lots of things (computer mouse, etc...).  I also stopped lifting weights - I was desperate to get better!

I returned to North America, hoping that my hand is better.  So far I have learned a Bach concerto - but sadly I still experience pain within 5-10 minutes of playing.  Sometimes I have to cut my practices short because of it.  Currently the pain lasts for an hour or so after playing.

What's going on? Shouldn't the tendons have healed after 6 months of careful rest?

Here is a picture of the area of the elbow I am referring to: (it is on the side, near the bone)

I recently noticed that my HAND curls really awkwardly when I sleep, so I now sleep with this hand brace, I hope it helps.

If anyone has experienced this, do you have any input? What should I do? I really wanted to get back into piano and begin a career as a piano teacher, but this is bumming me out.

Thanks


 

[pianoplayjl]

Hi mrbach,
     I see that you have a problem. I'm not a musical doctor or anything, but I reckon you have to consult a doctor about the persistent pain. Even if you have, pester the doctor with questions. anything that can help you.
    Also, try to avoid carrying stuff with your right hand whenever possible.
I hope my advice can help you.