Dear Ebbie,

This is fairly common with a lot of playing and may be also be related to the position your hand is in whilst playing, there is a complex system of levers and ropes involved in this simple-sounding exercise.

My guess is that, with some rest and stretching and with attention to diet, this will pass fairly quickly by itself. I had a similar problem with the wrist of my picking and strumming hand a few years ago when I was doing several 4 - 5 hour gigs a week. I did not take anti-inflammatories which I tend to not like but did change my style and posture and also took a number of acupressure treatments which did work in my case.

I would consult a doctor, especially if the symptoms persist after a rest and change in playing habit, as it could be tendonitis or arthritis.

The pain below the callous is pretty common. I still occasionally get it after a heavy session of playing, even though I've been playing a wide range of fretted intruments for 40+ tears. Again, easing off for a while should help this.

Peace and best regards,

moo