Previous Thread
Index
Next Thread
Print Thread
Go To
Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Hi Friends, Has anyone any advice regarding the above problem?
In 2010 I had a brain stem stroke on Halloween....it affected mainly the middle of my body, including my diaphragm......had to learn to walk and sing again. It also affected my fine spatial positioning................I had to re-learn playing bass runs on the guitar.....changed my Les Paul for a Strat......and a Martin acoustic.
I created a series of excercises to help myself.....I was back playing in the Edinburgh International Jazz Fest 2012 & 2013......that is when the cramps became real problem!....I can play for hours at home without cramping, but with the stress of concert performance, I began to cramp up after 30 mins. I have to do "2x50 min spots.
In 2013, I changed the running order......I normally do 12 items in each spot....so I played all my 8 Banjo Solos in the first half....then sang with my backing musos. Second half I could not play much....so I adapted...more band & vocals.
My doctor says stress.......out of my "comfort zone".....which I can accept.Lacking potassium? Not sure!
I know that there are many of you guys who are a lot worse off than me!.....but has anyone been through similar? Advice from anyone will be welcome! I want to look forward to playing next year at the Jazz Fest!
Sorry for the 'long post'.....it was difficult to explain my feelings regarding musical technique....my son Scott (a pro musician) reckons I'm back to 99% of my previous abilities,......if I can get some help with the cramping, 2014 will be happier! Thanks Joe G.

Off-Topic
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
M
Mac Offline
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
M
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Originally Posted By: Joe Gordon
Lacking potassium? Not sure!


Making sure that your body has the key electrolytes and minerals that can prevent cramps certainly wouldn't hurt.

I started getting cramps occasionally after the fiasco with the flesh-eating bacteria and the hospital and operations several or more years back now, and found that to be the case for me. However, I also found that it is a situation where I have to keep up on the supplements - without overdoing it - daily in order not to have them appear at innopurtune times such as the stresses encountered in performance.

Quote:

Causes of Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps are usually caused by dietary deficiencies of vitamins and minerals, particularly of calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamins D and B6, or the body's inability to assimilate these nutrients from the diet. They may also result from oxygen deficiency in the tissues. Other causes of muscle cramps are mental stress, nervous irritability and other psychic factors.


Quote:

The contributory underlying causes of muscle cramps associated with old age, where there has been adequate dietary calcium supply, are the lack of sufficient hydrochloric acid in the stomach, lack of dietary magnesium or Vitamin D, without which calcium cannot be properly utilized. Other causes include uraemia, peripheral vascular disease and neurological disability.


Needless to say, you should consult with your doctor before adding such vitamins and minerals to your medical regimen, though. Make sure that there won't be any undesirable interactions with any pharmaceuticals that you are already taking, etc.


--Mac

Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Thanks mac! I've been hospitalised 5 times in the last two years......adverse reactions to some of my meds! I suppose I should take a long look at what I have.....and how they affect me! Thanks, Joe G.

Last edited by Joe Gordon; 12/17/13 05:36 PM.
Off-Topic
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 216
Apprentice
Offline
Apprentice
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 216
I have the same thing.

My problem all started after leukemia and the treatment of chemo and a bone marrow transplant.
My ongoing issue is Graft vs. Host disease.

For a couple years I couldn't go a night without my foot cramping and often cramps elsewhere (I thought the ones I got by my shinbone were the worst). I too could only play for a little while before my fretting hand would cramp up.

I'm not having as much of a problem recently. Two of the meds I was on have been eliminated (Norvasc and Protonix). For me my best guess is that it was these meds or a combination of the meds I was on.

I can only suggest you read up in all the side effects of your meds and ask your Dr. If you could experiment with some alternatives.

And btw, my Dr. has me on magnesium, vit D and calcium.

Last edited by Frankp; 12/17/13 03:36 PM.

Frank

Some tunes from me and my collaborator: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvGqM6ktMW5ltTnyit1KWPg/videos


Band-in-a-Box Ultrapak 2019, Windows 11, Reaper, Behringer u-phoria UMC404HD, Kali LP-8
Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Frank, Thanks for taking the time to reply.
Very interesting....... you having a similar problem. I'll make a point of checking all my meds. Regards, Joe G.

Off-Topic
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 7,913
R
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
R
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 7,913
Joe, I have no medical advice to give - only praise and encouragement to you for your efforts to get back in the saddle.

Here in the US, our version of Football seems to take many by storm in the fall and early winter months. I've never had much interest, but this year, there's a relative miracle playing quarterback/on field coach named Peyton Manning.

I don't worship sports folks like some. However, his story on getting back to a professional level and being at the top of the game, after very debilitating neck surgeries is quite inspiring. He could hardly even toss a football with his throwing arm about 2 and a half years ago. Today, he is setting scoring records as one of the older quarterbacks in the NFL. He had to re-learn how to throw, etc.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/02/sports...l?smid=pl-share

Keep in mind this article was written in September of 2012, a year before this record setting season.

Perhaps you can take some inspiration from this. I hope so.

-Scott

Off-Topic
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 25,797
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 25,797
Joe, I'm sorry to read of your troubles. I always enjoy your posts here.

Although I'm social security age, I still play pretty good competitive tennis, often with guys my children's age. I take potassium tablets to prevent cramps in my hands and legs after playing. This isn't medical advice obviously, but it works for me.


BIAB 2024 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 6.5 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6; Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Roland Integra-7, Presonus Studio 192, Presonus Faderport 8, Royer 121, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors
Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Thanks Scott, A really inspiring article! I'll keep on doing what I'm doing...only more so! Regards, Joe G

Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Hello my friend Matt, Thanks for your reply. Funny thing about the potassium...........that may be one thing I'll have to check on!
Since the stroke, I've had all sorts of problems with strange reactions to medication..........hospitalised 5 times in the last 2 years........stomach bleeds.....bowel blockages......night time low blood pressure...all emergency "call-outs".....(my wife is on first name terms with the para-medics!!).
I think that a close look at ALL my meds....(and reactions to them)....is called for. I'm already starting to prepare for next year!
Regards, Joe G.

Off-Topic
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 6,705
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 6,705
Joe,

I too am sorry about all your medical issues, I can only hope that you have a better 2014. Sounds like you are well on your way with the medication evaluation process.

I will only add that is it guys like you and your never say quit attitudes that has inspired me all of my life.

Merry Christmas to you and Family,

Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Journeyman
OP Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 491
Thanks Danny.......a plectrum Banjoist is not allowed to quit!!
"A Merry Xmas & a Happy New Year" to you.....and ALL my forum friends.
Kind regards from Scotland.Joe G.

Off-Topic
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 9,301
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 9,301
Relaxing during the playing is crucial. If you can do it at home but not in front of an audience, you are not relaxed in the stage scenario.

You must be keeping those muscles rigid as you play and even when you're not....

I found it useful, when I first started playing in front of people, to let go of the neck between songs and even in the middle of songs where you have even a one or two second opportunity to do so such as a held note by a singer...... letting go of the neck and even shaking the hand out, relaxes those muscles. If you hold the neck you may be subconsciously squeezing the neck and that keeps those muscles tight..... you don't want that. Let go of the neck and open and close your fist, extending the fingers fully several times and then grab that neck and go for the next section of the song.


You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
Off-Topic
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
M
Mac Offline
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
M
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Originally Posted By: Guitarhacker
Relaxing during the playing is crucial. If you can do it at home but not in front of an audience, you are not relaxed in the stage scenario.

You must be keeping those muscles rigid as you play and even when you're not....


I don't think that's relevant in Joe's case.

He's an Old Trooper with more than his fair share of Performance, to include many a live TV presentation.

It was not a case of being too tense in my particular instance either, the cramps showed up only after that life-threatening experience with the flesh-munching bacteria, a month of surgical followed by several months of rehab. On top of all that, gotta consider the effect of the IV antibiotics, oral antibiotics, pain killers, and other meds. Something changed in the body.

And, in my case, the cramps did not just show up when performance was the issue, there were quite a few times when a leg cramp would just show up at some time or other, sleeping, driving, just sittin' somewhere in a chair and suddenly that thing that takes ALL of yer attention...

Happy to report that a bit more walking exercise, drinking lots of good pure water, about one cup every hour, plus intake of the aforementioned minerals and electrolytes put the issue to rest for me.

Before finding and implementing the above solutions, could just be seated behind the piano at a casual jazz gig or jam session - and suddenly, with no rhyme or reason, LEG CRAMP.

"Why be da pianist jumpin' up like dat?" wink

Ah'm walkin' it off, man, walkin' it off.



--Mac

Off-Topic
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 8,987
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 8,987
Joe, bananas are loaded with potassium. Here's a list of other good sources of potassium:

Which Foods are High in Potassium?
Nutrition FAQ

By Shereen Jegtvig, MS

Updated December 20, 2013

Reviewed by a board-certified health professional. See About.com's Medical Review Board.
See More About

potassium
hyperkalemia
basic nutrition
hypokalemia

"istockphoto.com"

Bananas are a great source of potassium.
Ewa Walicka "Potatoes are good for your heart."

Potatoes are rich in potassium that is good for your heart.
Ewa Walicka
See More About

potassium
hyperkalemia
basic nutrition
hypokalemia

Potassium is found in many different foods, especially fruits and vegetables, so you may be getting plenty of potassium in your diet right now. If not, here's a list of foods that contain potassium.

Foods High in Potassium

Raisins
Prunes
Potatoes
Apricots
Dates
Strawberries
Bananas
Watermelon
Cantaloupe
Citrus fruits
Beets
Greens
Spinach
Tomatoes
Mushrooms
Soy and soy foods
Many veggie burgers
Peas
Beans
Turkey
Beef
Salmon
Cod

A caveat: You can have too much potassium so don't over do it.

Off-Topic
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
M
Mac Offline
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
M
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 38,502
Implying that just one of the four key electrolytes and not mentioning the key minerals involved is also "overdoing" things a bit.

All things in moderation, I have found that it takes just enough of each to be available for the body when it needs whichever.


--Mac

Off-Topic
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122
Expert
Offline
Expert
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,122
Hi Joe,

You have lots of information to take to your Doctor. Prior to a liver transplant, I had sporadic and frequent cramps at any given time on any given part of the body.

In my case, I was and am on several medications. All were required and very little adjustment was allowed.

Another liver patient asked me if I had lots of cramps as she did as well.

"Tonic Water" with "Quinine" was the answer for her and as it turns out for me as well. Seems to help prevent leg cramps at night as well. Just a few sips prior to going on, and possibly during a break may help you.

Of course, clear it with your doctor, and you may want to leave out the Gin, but its something that has helped with cramps for several people that I've shared it with.

Off-Topic
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 7,913
R
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
R
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 7,913
Originally Posted By: Joe Gordon
Thanks Scott, A really inspiring article! I'll keep on doing what I'm doing...only more so! Regards, Joe G


Joe,

For what it's worth to continue the inspiration I hope you find in Peyton Manning's record setting year - yesterday, he eclipsed the old, and set a new single season record for touchdown passes for the NFL. Again, this is from a guy who technically shouldn't even be able to throw the ball. And the regular season is not yet over.

-Scott

Previous Thread
Next Thread
Go To

Link Copied to Clipboard
ChatPG

Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.

ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.

PG Music News
Convenient Ways to Listen to Band-in-a-Box® Songs Created by Program Users!

The User Showcase Forum is an excellent place to share your Band-in-a-Box® songs and listen to songs other program users are creating!

There are other places you can listen to these songs too! Visit our User Showcase page to sort by genre, artist (forum name), song title, and date - each listing will direct you to the forum post for that song.

If you'd rather listen to these songs in one place, head to our Band-in-a-Box® Radio, where you'll have the option to select the genre playlist for your listening pleasure. This page has SoundCloud built in, so it won't redirect you. We've also added the link to the Artists SoundCloud page here, and a link to their forum post.

We hope you find some inspiration from this amazing collection of User Showcase Songs!

Congratulations to the 2023 User Showcase Award Winners!

We've just announced the 2023 User Showcase Award Winners!

There are 45 winners, each receiving a Band-in-a-Box 2024 UltraPAK! Read the official announcement to see if you've won.

Our User Showcase Forum receives more than 50 posts per day, with people sharing their Band-in-a-Box songs and providing feedback for other songs posted.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed!

Video: Volume Automation in Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows®

We've created a video to help you learn more about the Volume Automation options in Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows.

Band-in-a-Box® 2024: Volume Automation

www.pgmusic.com/manuals/bbw2024full/chapter11.htm#volume-automation

Video: Audio Input Monitoring with Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows®

We've created this short video to explain Audio Input Monitoring within Band-in-a-Box® 2024, and included some tips & troubleshooting details too!

Band-in-a-Box® 2024: Audio Input Monitoring

3:17: Tips
5:10: Troubleshooting

www.pgmusic.com/manuals/bbw2024full/chapter11.htm#audio-input-monitoring

Video: Enhanced Melodists in Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows®!

We've enhanced the Melodists feature included in Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows!

Access the Melodist feature by pressing F7 in the program to open the new MultiPicker Library and locate the [Melodist] tab.

You can now generate a melody on any track in the program - very handy! Plus, you select how much of the melody you want generated - specify a range, or apply it to the whole track.

See the Melodist in action with our video, Band-in-a-Box® 2024: The Melodist Window.

Learn even more about the enhancements to the Melodist feature in Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows at www.pgmusic.com/manuals/bbw2024upgrade/chapter3.htm#enhanced-melodist

Band-in-a-Box® 2024 DAW Plugin Version 6: New Features Specifically for Reaper®

New with the DAW Plugin Version 6.0, released with Band-in-a-Box® 2024 for Windows: the Reaper® Panel!

This new panel offers built-in specific support for the Reaper® DAW API allowing direct transfer of Band-in-a-Box® files to/from Reaper® tracks!

When you run the Plugin from Reaper®, there is a panel to set the following options:
-BB Track(s) to send: This allows you to select the Plugin tracks that will be sent Reaper.
-Destination Reaper Track: This lets you select the destination Reaper track to receive media content from the Plugin.
-At Bar: You can select a bar in Reaper where the Plugin tracks should be placed.
-Start Below Selected Track: This allows you to place the Plugin tracks below the destination Reaper track.
-Overwrite Reaper Track: You can overwrite previous content on the destination Reaper track.
-Move to Project Folder: With this option, you can move the Plugin tracks to the Reaper project folder.
-Send Reaper Instructions Enable this option to send the Reaper Instructions instead of rendering audio tracks, which is faster.
-Render Audio & Instructions: Enable this option to generate audio files and the Reaper instructions.
-Send Tracks After Generating: This allows the Plugin to automatically send tracks to Reaper after generating.
-Send Audio for MIDI Track: Enable this option to send rendered audio for MIDI tracks.
-Send RealCharts with Audio: If this option is enabled, Enable this option to send RealCharts with audio.

Check out this video highlighting the new Reaper®-specific features: Band-in-a-Box® DAW Plugin Version 6: New Features Specifically for Reaper®

Band-in-a-Box® 2024 DAW Plugin Version 6: New Features Video

The new Band-in-a-Box VST DAW Plugin Verion 6 adds over 20 new features!

Watch the new features video to learn more: Video: Band-in-a-Box® 2024 - DAW Plugin Version 6 New Features

We also list these new features at www.pgmusic.com/bbwin.plugin.htm.

Forum Statistics
Forums66
Topics81,390
Posts732,453
Members38,441
Most Online2,537
Jan 19th, 2020
Newest Members
Ernest J, ingridguerci94, Izzy, BenChaz, Csofi
38,440 Registered Users
Top Posters(30 Days)
MarioD 195
Al-David 124
DC Ron 114
dcuny 87
rsdean 83
Today's Birthdays
CeeDee, SethMould
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.7.5