Is this the end of my jazz guitar channel and career?

[@ptocco1]

Aw man, really sorry to hear this. You did good work. Thanks for giving us your videos.

[@argyle6674]

Thanks!

[@theyapsta]

The algorithm presented your channel to me for the first time today. Liked and subbed. I have trigger finger on my left index... it's also called "rusty gate". But I I smashed it with a nylon mallet when I was a machinist. Why on earth I ever became a timber machinst I'll never know but when the music isn't paying the bills you do what ever you can. The single worst hand injury I have suffered as a guitar player. I avoid barre chords like the plague and it opened up a whole new world... for a while.. But I have always been hard on my left index finger and 13 years after the injury it hasn't got any worse but it never improved. It's very frustrating because I know how I used to play... And I don't play like that any more. But I still play... every day. Please keep your channel going. I'm sure everyone who has already discovered it will be supportive.

[@argyle6674]

Thanks for the kind words. Left index finger damage....wow...that must certainly make it difficult to play, but I'm glad you're still playing. Thanks again.

[@michaelmcdonald3057]

Sorry to hear your hand problem is affecting your playing. I am 73 and having some mild strength issues when playing. Barre chording is getting harder to position accurately. Gotta keep going as long as I can thought! Good luck to you in what ever you decide and thanks for the insight into jazz guitar!

[@argyle6674]

Yep, it does get more difficult as we age. No question about it. Thanks for your input.

[@mrdt011]

Take care, all the best !

[@argyle6674]

Thanks

[@emilbordon1329]

Best wishes to you.

[@BrianR-ih1rq]

Praying for you! I, too, was diagnosed with tremors about 5 years ago. And… I had the thumb joint in my left hand (fretting hand) replaced in April of ‘23. I get the meds, but have you tried physical therapy? Don’t quit. Small steps. I would hate for you to regret it. 🙏🏻

[@argyle6674]

Thanks. I didn't know they could replace a thumb joint. It's amazing what medicine can do. I haven't tried physical therapy yet. I'm debating if I should get some new meds. But, in any case, I'm not quitting, just revamping my playing technique at this point. Thanks so much for your input.

[@LucasCrossleyGuitar]

Hey there. Just seeing your videos for the first time. Sorry to hear that you are having some challenges physically. As a player myself, I can imagine it must be quite frustrating. A good friend and fellow band mate of mind who played keys (predominantly) developed a neurological condition called POEMS and it has made it really difficult for him. In his case, he still plays as best as he can but has shifted his focus to making music electronically and has a fast growing KZbin channel. It's been a great way for him to keep involved with music. There's lots of things to discuss about guitar without necessarily playing too much. Here's hoping you find something you can sink your teeth into. Best wishes for your health. I have subscribed and look forward to more videos!

[@argyle6674]

Hey thanks so much! Yes, musicians are suceptible to lots of hand problems. Thanks for your comment. :)

[@paullowe4072]

Yep, trigger finger certainly doesn't help when you are trying to reach those chord shapes (my left little finger locks)....but I guess when we look at Django, he was told he wouldn't play again after injury, but he adapted his technique and the rest is history, as they say. Your playing and knowledge will still be amazing even if you have to adapt 👍

[@argyle6674]

I guess there's always a work-around. Even if both hands are in good shape, playing guitar always presents some problems. Thanks for you input.

[@robertojemmi]

I think the same...

[@MikeShermanGuitar]

Sorry to hear about your hand issues. I was treated for mild trigger finger with a treatment called ASTYM (Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization) is a physical therapy technique that uses specialized instruments to treat soft tissue issues. It's a non-invasive procedure that can help with pain, movement, and flexibility. It worked for me ... they also gave me stretching exercises to keep it from returning.

[@argyle6674]

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll check it out.

[@christophecoste8471]

so sorry to hear this mate, sending you all positive thoughts and support. But what I really enjoy in your channel is the fact that you share all your experience, tips and tricks of an experienced guitar player, i don't really care if you not perform as when you were younger, in the end there is always a guy playing better than us. I see you as the jazz version of Uncle Ben Eller. So please don't stop sharing jazz concept and experience.

[@argyle6674]

Thanks for the kind words. :)

[@edbluesguitar]

I've had the same problem (essential tremor) since I was little, the only thing that relieves the tremors is beer, only 1 or 2 bottles when I play, it's not the best solution but it works..., I know there are different levels, I intend to try Cannabidiol... I consider you a great guitarist, I really liked the girl from Ipanema version (the best I found here!) all the best to you. I hope for the best!

[@argyle6674]

That's an interesting solution, beer. Let me know how Cannabidiol works. And thanks for the kind words. Thank you!

[@jeddred-e3m]

Best wishes

[@argyle6674]

Thank you!

[@0dtp1]

I have trigger finger in two fingers on my left hand. For me it's incredibly painful. I am scheduled for surgery and my ortho surgeon said every recovery is different and thatche has had guitarists who were able to fully play after only two weeks - hoping and praying that will be me. The tremors in your left hand could actually work to your advantage I think if you took up slide/lap steel/pedal steel. I've already resigned myself to the notion I will someday have to make that transition myself. All the best to you!

[@argyle6674]

Oh wow, sorry to hear that. I'm waiting out to see if the anti inflammation shot will work for me. Hope your fingers heal up and you can play again! Let me know how your surgery goes. Thanks.

[@jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988]

Hi There! That is a bummer! I may not comment a lot but I frequent your channel and I enjoy your channel and hoping you do not closet it. I hope you can give us didactic lessons / tips while you are in convelences or you can also play your older videos and react to them and let us know something about the song, what sort of thoughts, approach, tips on some of the things you did while playing a particular melody you are showing us. I pray that you recover with the injection on the right hand, maybe get another shot to do the trick as it appears it is already starting to work. Another thing is for the left hand take the previous meds at a lower dose that would alleviate side effects and though it may take longer to get it to stop, over time, it will, with a lower "tolerated" dose. It's a trial and error like those folks who are on statins. It's a race between the drug beating the side effects. I work and manage clinical trials in the biotech industry and that is why I know that lowering doses can "usually" do the trick, without the side effect in some individuals. Again, it is a trial and error model. I also do a lot of martial arts and grew up in Asia before coming to the US, where we are firm believers of the power of accupuncture. Try seeking advice from a reputable accupuncturist in your neck of the woods. I hope this helps a bit and that you heal soon as I would really like you to continue your YT journey, Sir!

[@argyle6674]

Hey thanks! I'm thinking of going back to the neurologist and try a different medication for the tremors. Maybe my channel will turn into a talking head channel where I just discuss what and how I play different tunes.

[@jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988]

@@argyle6674 That would be a great idea and help to us jazz guitar learners!

[@guitarplayingman]

Sorry to hear that! Why don't you teach some?? I enjoy listening to you play, but chord names and lessons would be great! CAN YOU PLAY RIGHT AND LEFT HANDED??? I SAW SOME OF YOUR SHORTS AND YOU WERE PLAYING LEFT HANDED. I KNOW I JUST ANSWERED MY OWN QUESTION, BUT REALLY!!

[@argyle6674]

My shorts videos are reversed. I only play right-handed. Thanks.

[@LuloM-e6n]

Bummer man! Yeah essential tremors are a pain... I would give a chance to meds again, I think propranolol works well but of course can have adverse reactions. First, no need to close the channel, you have a TON of theory to teach and perhaps play slower/more educational vs tunes altogether; even if you just talked theory it would be a great channel!!!! Second, maybe just get a pick and play power I-IV-V chords, let your hair grow and turn into a legendary rocker!!!! and last resort, drums! Don't give up!

[@argyle6674]

Hey Lucio...i was on primidone 50 MG Tabs that the Doc told me to cut in half. I took one dose and woke up and could barely walk, had to hold onto the wall, and I was in a brain fog. Lasted about 2 days, so I didn't take anymore. Yeah, I will definitly grow what hair I have left longer! LOL. Maybe make "how I do it" type vids. Commenting on what I am playing. We'll see. Lots of competition out their on KZbin. Hope you're doing well. :)

[@kevinmorrow2788]

Google vagus nerve syndrome! Might help!

[@jerveman]

maybe you should get some cannabis

[@alfcollins3810]

Hope you are not on a animal fat reduced diet .....what I mean to say is your brain is made of mylan and cholesterol lol and eggs contain mylan which the covering of the human spine´s nerve snake is also made of.....Also there is a female doctor on youtube who says trigger finger has something to do with insulin resistance? or sugar damage to our tendons? I will try to find her and get back to you

[@argyle6674]

Thanks for the info!