Navigating Finger Flexibility: Playing Guitar with Hypermobile Fingers

Have you been told that you are double-jointed or hypermobile? Does this unique condition impact your ability to play guitar effectively? Let's explore how to make the most of your flexible fingers while avoiding common pitfalls that can harm your playing.

Understanding Finger Flexibility and Joint Condition

Some of us are naturally more flexible in our joints, often called being double-jointed or medically referred to as hypermobile. Although you might have seen someone whom you suspect has hypermobile fingers, it's important to understand that being double-jointed doesn't necessarily mean you have two joints where there should only be one. What it means is that your connective tissues are more flexible. If you have been diagnosed with a connective tissue disorder, you are not alone. Many people experience some form of this condition, and it can affect various parts of your body, including your fingers.

Key Tips for Playing Guitar with Flexible Fingers

1. Keep Fingers Relaxed

Although your flexibility might allow you to bend your fingers in unusual ways, it's crucial to keep them relaxed and in a natural position. Over tension can lead to strain and even injury over time. Try to maintain a relaxed grip while playing, focusing on the dexterity and ease of your movements rather than forcing your fingers into unnatural positions.

2. Focus on Proper Technique

Using the correct finger positioning for chords and scales is essential, especially when you have flexible fingers. Keeping your fingers straight but relaxed enhances accuracy and speed. This technique will help you avoid unnecessary strain and maintain control over your playing.

3. Avoid Overextension

Even with flexible joints, it's important to avoid pushing them to extremes. Overextension can lead to discomfort and injuries over time. Be mindful of your limits and avoid stretching your fingers beyond what is comfortable.

4. Practice Regularly

Regular practice will significantly improve your muscle memory. Over time, you will find it easier to maintain the right finger positions without having to think too much about it. Consistent practice will help you develop a natural flow that optimizes your flexibility and technique.

Adjusting Your Chord Playing for Flexibility

When you have flexible fingers, you don't need to keep them straight to play guitar. In fact, you will often need to curve your fingers to make most chords. As you progress, you'll learn about barre or barre chords. These chords require you to lay one finger across multiple strings, often all six, to hold down the chord. This shape can be moved up the neck, changing the root note of the chord.

Barre Chords

For an F chord, a common barre chord at the fifth fret can be a good starting point. Practice moving this shape up two frets at a time to form different chords.

There is another barre chord using two barres that is based on the A chord. The first finger on the fifth string names the chord. A shorter barre is usually placed two frets above this, on strings 2, 3, and 4. This technique allows you to play different chords by simply changing the position of your fingers.

Regular practice and understanding the nuances of barre chords will help you navigate the unique challenges of playing guitar with flexible fingers. Embrace your natural flexibility while adhering to proper technique for a rewarding and injury-free playing experience.