Body & Bass

The Body & Bass page is devoted to exploring the physical aspects of playing the bass and help you avoid potential injury through awareness of these challenges and of body function.

Randall Kertz is a chiropractor, acupuncturist, bassist, author and lecturer on the topic of injury prevention for musicians. Find out more about him and his projects at www.drkertz.com.

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Double Bass Size: Why Consistent Instrument Size Matters
Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Learn why playing a consistent size of double bass can matter for technique, physical adaptation, and musician health. The video explores how instrument size can influence the body and the way a bassist interacts with the instrument.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Double Bass Size: Why Consistent Instrument Size Matters.

Thumb Hyperextension and Double Bass Technique
Monday, October 15, 2018

Learn about thumb hyperextension and why it can be an important concern for double bassists. The video examines thumb position, movement, and healthy technique to help players reduce unnecessary stress on the hand.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Thumb Hyperextension and Double Bass Technique.

TMJ and Bassists: Understanding Jaw Pain
Wednesday, August 8, 2018

Learn about temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems and why jaw pain can matter to musicians. This video examines TMJ-related discomfort and its potential relevance to bassists and healthy playing.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy TMJ and Bassists: Understanding Jaw Pain.

Muscle Pain vs. Nerve Pain in Musicians
Monday, July 16, 2018

Learn how muscle pain and nerve pain can differ in musicians and why recognizing the distinction matters. This video helps bassists better understand pain symptoms and the importance of appropriate evaluation and treatment.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Muscle Pain vs. Nerve Pain in Musicians.

Body and Bass: Musician Health — June 2018
Friday, June 1, 2018

This Body and Bass session from June 2018 explores health, movement, and physical issues relevant to bassists. It provides practical information for musicians interested in injury prevention and maintaining a healthy relationship with their instrument.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Body and Bass: Musician Health — June 2018.

Randy Kertz on Medications, Treatments, and Musician Health
Monday, April 2, 2018

Dr. Randy Kertz discusses medications, treatments, and the importance of sharing health information when dealing with musician injuries or physical problems. The conversation offers practical perspective for bassists navigating treatment and recovery.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Randy Kertz on Medications, Treatments, and Musician Health.

Bass Health: Proven Approaches to Preventing Playing Injuries
Thursday, March 8, 2018

Learn why bassists do not have to reinvent the wheel when it comes to instrument-related health and injury prevention. The video shares practical lessons and established approaches for maintaining healthy playing habits.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Bass Health: Proven Approaches to Preventing Playing Injuries.

Exercise for Bassists: Choosing the Right Workouts
Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Explore exercise choices that can help bassists build strength, mobility, and endurance while supporting healthy playing habits. The video focuses on selecting physical activities that complement the demands of playing the bass.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Exercise for Bassists: Choosing the Right Workouts.

Don't Hang(er) On
Thursday, January 18, 2018

Learn why musicians should avoid hanging or leaning on the double bass and how unnecessary support can affect posture, balance, and movement. This video encourages more efficient ways to interact with the instrument.

ISB's Body & Bass videos are for ISB members. Please login or join now to enjoy Don't Hang(er) On.