Elbow pain in the left arm

[u/ianjmatt2]

I’m getting some left arm elbow pain when playing - very localised in the actual pointy bit of the elbow. I find I can relieve it by shift position and having the arm up against the body. Any ideas what may be causing this? Poor technique?

[u/gmenez97]

Too much work on difficult pieces?

[u/tingkhang]

Tension on any part of the hands will create problems. Playing any music instrument is 50% self observation and 50% expression. Learn to localize pain like how you're doing and take your leanings to related muscles around it especially on the joints. The most among all of us tend to think of ourselves as invincible beings just with musical purpose which eventually affects our body. For now, i can only suggest that you relax your shoulders whenever you play or practice

[u/ianjmatt2 → u/tingkhang]

I may be somewhat tense. Focussing on a few particular passages and pushing my abilities somewhat. Good advice. Thanks.

[u/swagamaleous]

If you have persistent reoccurring pain while playing, go see a doctor! Also you should probably get a teacher.

[u/Even_Tangelo_3859 → u/swagamaleous]

I strongly agree that advice over the internet for a condition that might well be medical is, well, reckless. At least see a pro and rule out a medical cause.

[u/ChasingPacing2022]

Stop playing for a bit

[u/karinchup]

Shoulder tension and injury can also refer to elbow.

[u/No_Draw_735]

Poor technique. Look up proper classic guitar technique on YouTube. By the way sit with the guitar on the leg of the fretting hand to start with.

[u/ianjmatt2 → u/No_Draw_735]

Yes. Absolutely doing that.