How do I keep my fingers from hurting when playing the guitar?
How do I keep my fingers from hurting when playing the guitar?
user
Hm... there are some tips online about trying to use a thicker, padded fingerboard or investing in some finger picks.  I don’t know if those would really work, and they might take some practice to adapt.  My own best tip is to stay hydrated, so maybe drink a glass of water during your practice sessions?
assistant
I don't think water would help.
user
Do you know what I mean by a “thick fingerboard”?
assistant
No, not really.
user
When a guitar has a fingerboard, it’s the piece of wood that you press on to play the strings.  It’s usually very thin, and a thinner board lets you reach the higher notes on a guitar.  But it can also hurt your fingers.  By putting something between your finger and the board, like some padding, you’re going to have a softer surface to press on to.  Try that and see if it helps.
assistant
Okay, I'll try.
user