Tripod Grip And Carpal Tunnel - Working On Spencerian But In Pain

[Scribbled]

Greetings!

 

This is my first post.

 

My goal for 2018 is to learn Spencerian script. I am working my way through a bunch of exercise books I found online. I am trying to adjust my grip so it is better suited to using a fountain pen and dip pen. I am having some trouble though.

 

I notice that my wrist and forearm are starting to hurt. I had issues with carpal tunnel syndrome from when I used to do a lot of data entry, and it has suddenly flared up. I have not had pain like this for over 5 years, so I am frustrated. I am not sure if this writing position is simply not suitable for me, or if I am doing it wrong.

 

The photo titled "Grip 1" is what I notice that I keep drifting to when using a fountain pen. The "Grip 2" photo is what I try to maintain and what I go back to once I notice my grip changing.

 

When doing my practise drills I plant my arm on my desk, with the fleshy part of my arm the pivot point, and move back and forth in my sleeve as I write. I try to lift my wrist off the desk slightly, but I find that this starts to bring on the carpal tunnel pain. I have experimented with writing with my fingers and then using whole arm movements but it doesn't seem to make much difference in terms of my discomfort.

 

If I tilt my palm so it is more at an angle (knuckles pointing slightly to the right instead of upright to the ceiling) it is much more comfortable, but then my form is incorrect and I worry that this will form bad habits that will come back to haunt me as I get more into this.

 

Any advise + grip critique would be appreciated.

 

Thanks!

 

 

[Zookie]

First of all, greetings from New York ☺

Your second photo looks like a better grip. Have you tried moving your hand up a little more on your pen?

I have arthritis in my hand, so the weight of the pen and where I grip makes a difference. It might sound odd, but the less I move my thumb, the easier it is for me to write. I keep a loose grip.

We were taught the Palmer method in school, and I've been trying to brush up on it. It's a very relaxing exercise.

Good luck with your Spencerian!