TAH: Any wind instrument players? how long before you could play again?

I'm a professional musician, and I am planning on taking off a full month for recovery, meaning no teaching and no playing. I'm wondering if any other wind instrument players have had a TAH and how long it was before they could play again and or what obstacles made playing uncomfortable?

I don't have a personal experience to share with you but I hope someone around here does! Have you discussed it with your doctor? He/she may be able to give you a good idea. Best wishes!



Deb

I'm a former oboe player (I played with the local orchestra many many moons ago) and I would think it would take a solid week before you could begin playing for short spurts. Your lung capacity and breath control take a bit to recover.

Hi amymcg!

I'm also a professional musician (including clarinet) who had a TAH. From my experience, taking a full month off before playing is a great idea, as there is major healing to do.

You already know the abdominal muscles involved in proper breathing. You will find that, in the early weeks, it will seem that every move you make is felt in your abdomen.

Early recovery is considered to be 4 to 6 weeks. During that time, avoid lifting, bending, and twisting as much as you can to give yourself the best chance at proper healing. After your month is up, try to work in your playing in short spurts...most importantly, listen to your body! It will usually "tell" you when you are overdoing it.

Taking it easy in those early weeks is always worth it in the long run as you want to give yourself every chance to heal properly!

My very best to you,

Thanks!