Pain when drawing from shoulder.
https://www.reddit.com/r/ArtFundamentals/comments/zh9xmc/pain_when_drawing_from_shoulder/
2022-12-09 21:55
Lilkko
Hi guys!
Whenever I draw from my shoulder, I get some pretty deep pain inside and / or I can't even keep my arm up long enough to draw more than a few lines. Is this because my shoulder muscles are weak? Should I continue to try to draw from my shoulder? Some advice would be much appreciated!
PS: I am out of shape and I'm working on it.
Uncomfortable
2022-12-09 22:29
While soreness - like what one would experience as the result of reasonable exercise - is entirely normal, what you're describing sounds more worrying. I would not advise hovering your hand, if you're doing so (as explained here), but in general if you're experiencing pain beyond what I explained above, I would consult a medical professional. While the folks here are certainly well meaning, they are not qualified to provide advice of this nature, and there is definitely risk of whatever they suggest making it worse.
SubstantialYak2971
2022-12-10 00:26
Hi there. I'm a licensed massage and bodywork therapist. If you draw frequently, the muscles you're describing could benefit from a good massage/bodywork session. Try that and see if it eases the discomfort. If it continues, it may be worth discussing with a PT about what muscles to strengthen to help support that specific movement. All the best to you!
wallsquirrel
2022-12-15 03:29
I went to a physical therapist for inside my shoulder pain. My favorite exercise for it is lay on your side and raise your arm (the one closest to the ceiling) straight up toward the ceiling and rotate (twist) your entire arm from hand to shoulder first all the way one direction then all the way the other direction, like you're turning a doorknob on the ceiling but using your entire straight arm. Do the other side. 12 times each for a few days then increase it to two sets of twelve. Use a light hand weight too, if you want.
Lilkko
2022-12-15 03:49
It's funny you mention that, because that's exactly what I do every night to make the pain stop. It throbs during the night and if I don't crack it, I can't fall asleep.
wallsquirrel
2022-12-15 04:25
Yep, I do that to for the same reason. Another one is to hold a foam roller on the wall so you can get both your forearms on it with the thumb side of your hand facing you. Then roll it up and down with just your forearms, around shoulder height, like 10 inches up and ten inches down. Anyway, I'm going to get back to drawing boxes, haha. Have a good one.
Lilkko
2022-12-10 01:18
Okay, I agree with your comment. I wasn't sure if I was just holding my arm the wrong way or something. Thank you for your reply!
Also thank you for everything you've done and still continue to do for the drawing community! You are greatly appreciated!