TENSION TENSION TENSION

[deannarae7x]

Hello Everybody.
I am in desperate need of help. I have been playing piano for about 6 years now and lately my wrists have been in pain after practicing. (This has also been happening when I play violin  and conduct.) I know that my wrists are tense, I just have no clue how to relax them. I have been searching the internet and have yet to find the answer. Are there any pointers that could help me out? Im going to graduate college with a music degree and this pain will definitely not be okay once (if) I get a job. Thanks so much!!

[teran]

Have you been doing weight training by any chance?

[hfmadopter]

The cause could be anywhere in your upper body really but start at least with good posture and correct seating height. Your forearms should be level coming off the keyboard ( no rising up or down to meet your elbow ), with your upper arms at your sides. That's the starting point, along with not letting your wrist cave in or overly arch up and have your fingers in a natural position to the keys.  You will need proper instruction beyond just those suggestions.

[hardy_practice]

Try playing the outside of your thigh while stood up with arms/hands hanging at your side.  Can you do this with a really loose wrist?  One key is to hang your hand from your wrist as often as possible.