You've been practicing for two hours, and when you put down your instrument, you notice your neck stiffening on one side, or your wrists are tired in a way that has nothing to do with your usual physical exertion. Playing an instrument isn't a sport, but it demands a similar amount from the body: repetition, hours, sustained posture.
Does this sound familiar? Many musicians overlook how their practice affects their bodies until discomfort arises. Before that point, massage and a few simple routines can help keep the body in tune, just like the instrument.
Where the body bears weight according to the instrument
- String (violin, viola, guitar): Neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. The violin pulls the neck to one side for hours; the guitar puts more strain on the forearms and fingers.
- Piano: wrists, forearms, lower back and shoulders, due to the constant flexion of the fingers.
- Wind: jaw, neck, upper back and abdominal area.
- Percussion: shoulders, arms, wrists and back.
In addition, there's the stress before a performance, which tenses the same areas through other means: neck, shoulders, and back. If you experience any persistent discomfort or diagnosed injury, consult your doctor before any session.
What can massage offer?
The therapeutic massage addresses the tension accumulated from hours of practice, using kneading and pressure on the most strained areas. Passive stretching—the kind the therapist performs without you doing anything—helps increase the range of motion in the areas most used by your instrument.
In our experience, musicians who incorporate regular sessions describe playing with more ease and feeling a greater connection to their instrument. None of this replaces medical attention when needed; it's a complement, not a treatment.
How often does it usually fit?
- Intensive professional practice: every one or two weeks.
- Semi-professional internship: every three or four weeks.
- Occasional practice: every one or two months, depending on how you notice it.
Simple exercises between sessions
- Neck and shoulders. Tilt your head to one side, hold for 15 seconds, then switch sides. Cross one arm over your chest, 15 seconds per side.
- Wrists and fingers. Open and close your hands 10 times. Wrist circles, 10 per side.
- Lower back. Lying down, hug your knees to your chest, 20 seconds per leg.
- Breathing. Two or three minutes of diaphragmatic breathing, paying attention to the abdomen.
And something simple that makes a big difference: for every twenty minutes of practice, take a twenty-second break to stretch. Also, adjust the supports and the chair to avoid forcing unnecessary postures.
To continue reading
- Guía de masaje deportivo: rendimiento y recuperación
- Basic stretching guide
- Therapeutic massage for sedentary jobs
Taking care of your body regularly is an investment in being able to continue playing comfortably. Book your appointment. deep tissue massage in Granada or consult our full massage menu.
