Advertisement
Help Keep Boards Alive. Support us by going ad free today. See here: https://subscriptions.boards.ie/.
If we do not hit our goal we will be forced to close the site.

Current status: https://keepboardsalive.com/

Annual subs are best for most impact. If you are still undecided on going Ad Free - you can also donate using the Paypal Donate option. All contribution helps. Thank you.
https://www.boards.ie/group/1878-subscribers-forum

Private Group for paid up members of Boards.ie. Join the club.

6 String Finger Style/Index finger probs

  • 12-09-2016 08:16PM
    #1
    Kettleson
    Closed Accounts Posts: 2,047 ✭✭✭


    Hi all

    I'm playing a lot recently and have constant problem with nail damage/soreness on index finger. I'm using all fingers to pick steel string acoustic, and using my index finger to strum when needed. I'm going easy enough too, not thrashing it!

    The index finger problem is really noticeable on medium gauge strings, and not so bad on lights. But I not sure my technique is sustainable on lights and maybe I should be looking to change my strumming style?

    Should I be using a plastic finger pick on index finger? (I can use standard plectrum well enough but it doesn't suit my song style at present).

    Should I be changing my technique? Any videos out there? Or ways to protect/harden nail?

    Many Thanks


Comments

  • #2
    loyatemu
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2, Paid Member Posts: 16,050 ✭✭✭✭loyatemu


    try using picks, they will require a change in your technique though, I find them really awkward to use. "Alaska Picks" might be worth trying (they fit under your nail, effectively replacing it with a plastic nail).

    Put your money where yer mouth is... Subscribe and Save Boards!

    https://subscriptions.boards.ie/



  • #3
    EoghanIRL
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,080 ✭✭✭EoghanIRL


    I still find it hard playing fingerstyle without my finger nails grown. I usually do most my finger picking playing when I have time off as I need to have short fingernails in clinical environments. I tried a thumb pick and didnt really like it.


Advertisement