Double Bass Players – Be Aware.

As a chiropractor, posture, biomechanics, and structural integrity of the human frame and how they interact with the nervous system is my primary focus with musicians and common folk alike. The musicians that I have worked with over the past 22+ years need their bodies and brains to work together for speed, accuracy, consistency, and a perfection that can only come with years of training. Years of training translates to years of wear and tear, which can lead to pretty awful situations at times.

Double bass players have a handful of risk factors that other musicians don’t. Their instruments put interesting demands on their bodies, which can lead to not so “interesting” injuries.

Below you will find things to be aware of if you are an double bass player.

Standing Posture

1. Balanced Stance: Maintain a balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart and weight evenly distributed on both feet. Avoid leaning excessively to one side or putting all your weight on one leg[1][5]. Wear supportive shoes with inserts to create a foundation that properly supports and align the joints of your body.

2. Bass Angle: Position the bass at an angle, not completely upright. An upright position can cause the bass to move away from your body, requiring you to hold it in place[5]. Bring the bass towards your body at about an arm’s length away[5]. Do not play with an instrument that is too big.

3. Alignment: Align your body carefully with the nut of the double bass. You should be able to comfortably reach the end of the fingerboard with your right hand[5]. (see #2)

4. Relaxed Shoulders: Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid raising them or tilting your head to accommodate the scroll[5]. Raising your shoulders for the entire time you practice or play will almost certainly lead to issues of the head, neck, shoulders and arms. #relax

5. Whole-Body Motion: Incorporate gentle back-and-forth motion and weight shifts to maintain fluidity and prevent tension buildup[3].

 

Seated Posture

1. Upright Posture: Sit upright on the edge of the stool or chair, leaning slightly forward in an athletic position[3].

2. Left Leg Position: Experiment with different left leg positions, such as using a footstool or yoga block, to release tension in the back and shoulders[3].

3. Instrument Angle: Adjust the angle of the double bass to find a comfortable position that allows easy access to the fingerboard and strings[2].

4. Stool Height: Ensure the stool height allows you to maintain a relaxed posture without excessive reaching or bending[2].

5. Avoid Slouching: Be mindful of slouching or developing poor posture, which can lead to discomfort and injury[2].

 General Considerations

1. Relaxation: Maintain a relaxed and tension-free posture by staying aware of any tightness or strain in your body[3].

2. Stretching and Exercise: Incorporate regular stretching, strength training, and aerobic exercise into your routine to improve overall fitness and stamina[3].

3. Breaks and Rest: Take regular breaks during practice sessions to rest and reset your posture[3]. How often? Every 45 minutes to an hour should suffice if you are not already injured or on the verge of injury.

4. Mirror Practice: Practice in front of a mirror to monitor your posture and make necessary adjustments[5].

5. Ergonomic Equipment: Consider using ergonomic equipment, such as well-designed straps or stools, to support proper posture[1].

By focusing on these postural considerations, upright bass players can reduce the risk of injury, improve comfort, and enhance their overall playing experience.

Dr. Lou Jacobs in Portland, Maine has worked as a chiropractor and acupuncturist  for some of the world’s most famous musicians. He was interviewed for a published article in Guitar Player Magazine in 2023, and offers online consulting for musicians with playing related musculoskeletal and nerve disorders. Dr. Lou may be reached at (207) 774-6251, he is available to consult with patients anywhere in the world. 

Citations:
[1] https://www.notreble.com/buzz/2011/06/07/health-fitness-for-the-working-bassist-%E2%80%93-part-2-posture-posture-posture/
[2] https://doublebassblog.org/2008/05/standing-versus-sitting-for-the-double-bassist.html
[3] https://doublebasshq.com/learn_posts/how-to-hold-the-double-bass-without-wrecking-your-body/
[4] https://doublebasshq.com/learn_posts/how-to-stand-successfully-with-the-double-bass/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LD8qKV9aWD4
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/Bass/comments/7rwo8y/body_posture_physical_exercise_tips_for_bass/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnaBOJ9sLQU
[8] https://discoverdoublebass.com/lesson/standing-posture