wrist cramps up like crazy when I play bar chords on my guitar...OUCH an

Question:

My hand/wrist cramps up like crazy when I play bar chords on my guitar...OUCH and HELP!?

I get really cramped when I play bar chords...in my wrist and around the base of my thumb. I have played guitar now for 6 years...and it's getting worse...any idea what it is? and how to take care of it?

Thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: that happened to me. I play the viola and i have played for like 10 years. And a couple years ago my wrist started cramping up like you described. Turns out I had carpul tunnel syndrom. I went to the doctor and i had to wear a special carpul tunnel brace on my wrist when i slept.. and occationally take anti inflamatory drugs such as advil. I know some people will only experience releive after they recieve the carpul tunnel surgery. I dont know how bad the pain is after treatment. Talk to your doctor.