Most times i practise for any length of time (today I have been practising for 45 mins) I become aware of a pain in my left shoulder blade. I asked my teacher if I am standing awkwardly, or twisted but she said my posture was fine. She suggested trying to practice with both my shoulder blades touching a wall. but I find this pretty restricting, and I'm scared to move! I was wondering if there are any suggestions for help on this and whther anyone else suffers similarly? I'm only 20, so will be worried if it's something I have to put up with for the rest of my career...

I've had the same problem. I think it's probably a matter of tension building up, and for me it's associated with my left arm getting tired! I was told to ensure that I stand looking at the music stand, with my feet pointing to the right ... standard flute stance, I think. Seems to make a slight difference.

Thanks, I'm always tense so that may explain it a little! x

I get that too sometimes. I usually find it is when I'm tense. I then stop and wiggle my arms around a bit and stretch a bit and then try again. Can't give you any more advice, unfortunately, but you're not alone!

I have had a longterm problem with my left shoulder. I eventually saw a chiropractor who told me the problem was aggravated by two things - playing the flute and driving a car (approximately 90% of the week then!) - as both these activities were pushing my shoulders forward which caused a rib to "pop out" (not as bad as it sounds) from its position on the left of my spine. In turn this caused diagonal tension in the muscles that criss-cross between the shoulder blades resulting in a build-up of fibrous tissue (a nasty lattle critter you can feel moving around especially when the pain is bad). An x-ray showed quite clearly what was happening.

Although I still get a problem from time to time, since having treatment and seeking advice from an Alexander Technique person it is much, much better. I still can't play for more than about 40 minutes in one go but I get by.

If it persists do not hesitate to get it looked at properly. I put it off for several years and was in serious pain by the time I saw someone.

Crock-Bag x