When you start playing guitar, it is completely normal for your fingertips to become sore. The skin needs to get used to the strings, and the muscles in your hands need to be used in a new way. But sometimes it hurts more than it needs to. Here are the most common causes.
The strings are too high
One of the most common causes lies in the guitar and not in your hands. If the strings are too high above the fretboard, you have to press much harder to get a clean tone. This takes a toll on your fingertips and makes it harder to learn.
You can measure it yourself: The distance from the string down to the fretboard at the 12th fret should preferably be under 3 mm on a western guitar and no more than 4 mm on a classical guitar. If it is higher, a setup at the workshop can make a big difference. The same applies to the nut at the headstock: If the slots are too high, the first frets are unnecessarily heavy to play.
If you bought the guitar from us, after 3–6 months you can get a free check-up with adjustment. Otherwise, you can have a setup done at our workshop in Aarhus or Copenhagen.
Technique
Without the right technique, there will be unnecessary strain on your fingers. You may be pressing harder than necessary, bending your fingers at awkward angles, or using too much force on the chords. Try to figure out how little you need to press before the tone rings clearly, and place your fingers close to the fret.
Tension in hands and arms
When you play for a long time, the muscles in your hands and fingers can become tense from the repeated movements and the static strain. Keep your shoulders and wrists relaxed.
Strength and habit
If you are new, or you don't play that often, the muscles in your hands are not used to the strain. It comes with time. Short, daily practice sessions are better than long sessions once a week.
Warm-up and breaks
Warm up your hands and fingers before you play, and take breaks along the way. If you play for a long time without a break, you risk overstraining your hands.
The strings also matter
Thinner strings are easier to press down. On a western guitar, a set in Extra Light or Custom Light can make it easier at the beginning. Read more in our guide to Martin strings. Nylon strings on a classical guitar are even softer.
Does it keep hurting?
Sore fingertips are normal and go away. Pain in the joints, wrist, or forearm is something else. If the pain continues, talk to a guitar teacher about your technique or with a physiotherapist or doctor.
If you need to find your first guitar, read The hunt for the first guitar.