Hello, I'm new to the forum and just received my "official" diagnosis of focal dystonia today, although I have suspected it for some time. My right hand is the affected area, with a loss of speed, dexterity and accuracy. I am a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar and five string banjo. I was a professional musician for 10 years and have been playing as an avocation for another 20 years. Currently, I am unable to play on an acceptable level.
The accepted right hand technique for five-string banjo involves holding the ring and pinkie fingers motionless while using the thumb, index and middle finger to pick. My technique on the guitar involves holding a flatpick with the thumb and index finger, while using the middle and ring fingers to pick other notes. I am able to play the guitar slightly better than the banjo at this point.
My question is...why is there a difference?
