The Indomitable Spirit: How I Overcame Wrist Injuries to Reclaim My Guitar Journey
My guitar journey has been a series of highs and lows, with my latest setback being a fall from a ladder that led to a wrist sprain. This injury put me off playing for over two years but couldn't stop me forever. Now, I am getting back into it despite surprising challenges and physical limitations. My quest to reconcile my love for the guitar with my current physical state has been both inspiring and humbling.
Struggling with Physical Limitations
The most significant impact of my wrist sprain was a complete halt in my physical ability to play the guitar. Mentally, however, I never did. The fight to regain my mobility has been a slow and arduous process. My left side, which became mostly paralyzed, has made it challenging to regain the dexterity and strength needed to play. Mindfulness meditation and other physical therapies have only provided minor improvements.
Initially, I toyed with the idea of learning to play with my left hand but quickly dismissed it due to the critical importance of my right hand as the strumming and picking hand. The thought of playing with my foot or the idea of learning keyboard playing only with my right hand seemed impractical and frustrating.
Navigating Health Challenges
Arthritis, growing tinnitus, and deafness have added to the complexity of my situation. These conditions have forced me to give up certain types of guitars, such as the acoustic 12 string and steel six string. However, I haven’t entirely abandoned my love for the instrument. I can still noodle along with my classical and some electric guitars from time to time, though I can't play as much or as well as I once did.
The decision not to stop playing guitar altogether is rooted in its profound emotional value. The guitar is a constant companion, loyal and honest, unlike other relationships. It serves as a medium to convey feelings and experiences that are hard to express in words.
Lifelong Adversity and Musical Pursuit
Before the injury, my career in design and advertising, and my marriage to my wife, held precedence over my musical pursuits. The advent of the internet and my involvement in corporate bands brought new energy to my music. The realization that I had missed playing guitar led to a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the setbacks, my passion for guitar remains unswayed.
The journey to regain my skills was arduous. After realizing that I had become a lesser player due to deferred practice, I started dedicated practice sessions to recondition myself. This is where I am now, striving to reclaim my former musical prowess.
Conclusion
While it's undoubtedly a hard journey, the emotional and physical challenges I face are a testament to the indomitable spirit within me. The guitar has become an integral part of my life, and I am committed to keeping it in my hands, no matter the odds.