The Shakes

Hugh · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2018 2:53 am Post subject: The Shakes

My apologies for coming on with problems but I'm reaching the age (56) when some physical issues are creeping in.

I'm starting to get a tremor which can affect my playing occasionally. It's called an intention tremor or a positional tremor. It's likely to be a progressive thing. My Dad, 85, has it pretty bad and stopped playing because of it. It might be linked with tension when producing notes as well (see previous thread on yips).

It's definitely worse when fuelled by caffeine and drinking plenty of water helps. it's also worse with heavier instruments. I play a heavy Taylor Flugel and the shakes are much worse with that than when I'm playing my lighter Bach Trumpet.

Maybe a combination of playing lighter instruments and working on the muscles needed for holding up instruments for long periods would help.

I'd be very grateful for any advice.
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Hugh Stanners

kehaulani · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2018 9:57 am Post subject:

Can I assume that you've seen a medical specialist? That's an important factor.

You also might consider a light horn. My Benge is pretty light, although if you're going for a darker, flugel sound, you might have to change mouthpieces.

This weight chart might be helpful.
http://rouses.net/trumpet/trumpet_weights.html
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Sturmbill · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2018 12:56 pm Post subject:

It may be due to different causes, but I, too, suffer from tremors in my left arm. I have found that a brace purchased in a drug store has gone a long way towards stabilizing my arm and controlling the unwanted vibrato.

I tried several different brands and types (even wearing two of different styles) until I found one that did the job and was comfortable to wear.

I got it in basic black so that it would go with my tux...

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Noli illegitimi carborundum... Joe Stilwell

ghelbig · Posted: Fri Mar 09, 2018 1:59 pm Post subject:

Getting old ain't for wimps.

Seymor B Fudd · Posted: Sat Mar 10, 2018 2:41 am Post subject:

Hugh · Posted: Thu Aug 09, 2018 5:12 am Post subject: The Shakes

Many thanks for the very helpful replies and pms.

I have taken medical advice about my shakes and I'm trialling a low dose of barbituates at first. Often Drs would prescribe beta blockers, but I'm asthmatic so they're out. I've noticed some impact, but am still getting the shakes especially when I'm tired and going for a big solo!

I think the weight of the instruments I play makes a difference. I've stopped playing my heavy Taylor Flugel and now just play a lighter Bach trumpet. I might end up with something plastic!
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Hugh Stanners

jonalan · Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2018 10:32 am Post subject:

Best of luck to you, Hugh. I have been diagnosed with essential tremors that affect my playing. Started in my right arm a good 10 years ago, and wasn't noticeable in my playing. Then it progressively got a little worse over time and has progressed to my jaw as well. I have good days and bad days. I notice it more than folks on the other side of the horn, but still VERY frustrating.

I am currently seeing a neurologist, who has me on beta blockers which help, but do not completely eliminate the tremors. I am completely off caffeine, and do my best to reduce stress (really tough at work, though), which also help. I haven't found too much that really help reduce the tremors, although I have to say focusing on a good, solid airstream really makes a difference.

I hope you find something that works for you, but definitely keep playing.
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