How to Play Guitar with Double-Jointed Fingers

Playing guitar with double-jointed fingers can be both a blessing and a challenge. You might have more flexibility than most guitarists, but that can sometimes lead to unexpected finger positions and tension. Let's talk about how you can make the most of your unique hands and get those riffs and solos sounding tight.

Understanding Double-Jointedness and Its Impact on Guitar Playing

Double-jointedness, or hypermobility, allows your joints to move beyond the typical range of motion. For guitarists, this can mean that your fingers might bend or twist in unexpected ways, which can be both a quirky advantage and a bit of a hurdle. On the upside, you might find certain stretches or fingerings easier. However, maintaining control and precision can be tricky, especially when you're shredding through fast metal riffs or complex solos.

One issue you might face is that your fingers tend to collapse or buckle under pressure. This can lead to muted notes or difficulty in maintaining steady chords. Another common problem is excessive tension. Because your joints are more flexible, you might unconsciously overcompensate, leading to fatigue or even strain. But don't worry—there are ways to work around these challenges to develop a unique and effective playing style.

Setting Up Your Guitar for Success

Your guitar setup can significantly influence how comfortable and effective your playing is. For those with double-jointed fingers, making a few adjustments can make a world of difference. Here are some tips that might help:

• String Gauge: Opt for lighter strings. Heavier strings require more tension and might exacerbate the issues with finger buckling. Lighter strings are easier to press down, which can help you maintain control without excessive force.
• Action Height: Lower the action on your guitar. This reduces the amount of pressure needed to press the strings down, which can prevent your fingers from collapsing.
• Neck Profile: A thinner neck might be more comfortable for your hands, allowing for easier reach and better control. However, this is a personal preference, so it's worth trying a few different neck shapes to see what feels best.
• Tuning: Experiment with different tunings. Sometimes, a slight change in tuning can make certain fingerings easier or more comfortable.

Remember, these are just starting points. The key is to find a setup that feels natural and comfortable for you. You might need to experiment a bit, but once you find the right combination, it will make playing so much more enjoyable.

Developing a Relaxed Playing Technique

Playing with tension is something every guitarist battles with at some point, but for those with double-jointed fingers, it can be more pronounced. The flexibility in your joints might lead you to use more force than necessary, thinking you need to compensate for the lack of rigidity. Instead, focus on developing a relaxed technique.

Start with these exercises to promote relaxation:

• Warm-Up: Always begin your practice sessions with a good warm-up. Simple finger stretches and scales played slowly will help loosen your joints and reduce tension.
• Breathing: Pay attention to your breathing as you play. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. This will help you stay calm and reduce physical tension.
• Light Touch: Practice playing with a lighter touch. You don’t need to press the strings down as hard as you might think. Experiment with how little pressure you can use while still getting a clear sound.

As you practice, regularly remind yourself to check for tension in your hands, wrists, and arms. Relaxation is key to not only overcoming the challenges of double-jointedness but also to improving your overall playability and stamina.

Fingering Techniques for Precision and Control

Precision can be a challenge with double-jointed fingers due to the tendency for fingers to move unpredictably. Developing strong fingering techniques can help you maintain control and accuracy. Here are a few strategies:

• Economy of Motion: Keep your finger movements as minimal as possible. This helps reduce unnecessary flailing or collapsing of your joints. Focus on lifting your fingers just enough to clear the strings.
• Anchor Points: Use your thumb as an anchor point on the back of the guitar neck. Having a stable base can help stabilize your fingers.
• Finger Independence Exercises: Practice exercises that focus on finger independence. For instance, try playing scales with different finger combinations and patterns to strengthen each finger's control individually.

These techniques take time to develop, so be patient with yourself. Consistency is key, and over time you'll find your finger control and accuracy improving.

Adapting Chord Shapes and Positions

Chords can be particularly tricky for those with double-jointed fingers. The usual positions may not work as well, leading to muted strings or awkward finger angles. However, adapting chord shapes can make a significant difference.

Try these adaptations:

• Partial Chords: Instead of playing full bar chords, try partial chords. For example, play just the top three or four strings of a bar chord shape. This can reduce strain and allow for more precise finger placement.
• Alternative Fingerings: Experiment with alternative fingerings for chords. Sometimes switching the order of your fingers can make a chord more comfortable to play.
• Capo Use: A capo can change the chord positions on the neck, offering new ways to play chords that might otherwise be difficult.

Don't be afraid to create your own chord shapes if the traditional ones don't work for you. The goal is to find what works best for your unique hands.

Incorporating Finger Exercises into Daily Practice

Consistency is vital when adapting your playing style to accommodate double-jointed fingers. Regular practice with targeted exercises can help you build strength and dexterity. Here are a few exercises to consider:

• Spider Exercises: These involve playing chromatic patterns up and down the fretboard, using all four fingers. They're great for building finger independence and control.
• Stretching Exercises: Gently stretch your fingers before and after playing to maintain flexibility and prevent injury.
• Finger Strengthening Exercises: Use a stress ball or a hand gripper to strengthen the muscles in your fingers and hands.

Integrating these exercises into your daily routine will help improve your dexterity and control over time. Remember, improvement takes time, and even small progress is a victory.

Exploring Different Playing Styles and Genres

One of the great things about guitar is the diversity of styles and genres you can explore. With double-jointed fingers, you might find certain styles more accessible or enjoyable. For instance, fingerstyle guitar can be quite rewarding since it allows for more fluid and expressive playing. Alternatively, genres like jazz or blues, which often use less conventional chord shapes and progressions, might suit your natural flexibility.

Experimenting with different styles not only helps you find what feels most comfortable but also broadens your musical horizons. And if you're into metal, don't worry—there's plenty of room for uniqueness and innovation in that genre too!

Interestingly enough, at Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, who can guide you through different techniques and styles that might be particularly beneficial for someone with your unique hand structure.

Seeking Feedback and Continuous Learning

Feedback from fellow musicians or instructors can be incredibly valuable. They can offer insights or suggestions you might not have considered. Attending workshops or taking lessons can provide new perspectives and techniques to incorporate into your practice.

At Riffhard, we have a community of learners and professionals who are always willing to offer support and advice. Joining such communities can keep you motivated and inspired.

Learning is a lifelong process, and every guitarist, regardless of their joint flexibility, has something new to discover. Embrace the journey and remember that your unique hands are part of what makes your playing special.

Staying Patient and Positive

Finally, it's essential to stay patient and positive throughout your guitar-playing journey. Adapting to playing with double-jointed fingers takes time and perseverance, but the progress you make will be incredibly rewarding.

Celebrate small victories, and don't be too hard on yourself when things don't go perfectly. Every guitarist faces challenges; it's how you work through them that defines your growth.

Remember, you're not alone. Many guitarists have unique physical traits that they've learned to work with, and they've emerged stronger and more skilled because of it. With dedication and a positive mindset, you can achieve the same.

Final Thoughts

Playing guitar with double-jointed fingers comes with its own set of challenges and advantages. By adjusting your guitar setup, developing a relaxed technique, and adapting your playing style, you can harness your flexibility to become a unique and skilled guitarist. And if you're looking for guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists that can help you refine your skills and embrace the quirks that make your playing stand out.