From time to time I have run into players of various instruments having to deal with health problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Players such as Jimmy Bruno, Les McCann, and several others have had surgery or other remedies to correct the problem.

I recently heard Randy Napolean play and was amazed at his fingerstyle technique using rest strokes. He managed to play fluently at all speeds and to keep a consistent tone per string to my ears. We talked about running/jogging which we both indulge in. We have found that it helps maintain the body and helps it to recover faster than many other types of activities.

I've found that light weight lifting utilizing high reps very beneficial with minimum rest periods between sets. Pushups/various ab crunches are often useful when on the road as well as jogging/running right after checking into a hotel room. It seems to prime the body for faster reaction times and helps minimize the jitters, which can be somewhat ok as long as they don't destroy the quest for entering that "zone" that we have to enter to really play.

I would suggest reading before gigs when possible. Especially ones that deal with one's particular interests. I personally seem drawn to materials based on philosophic viewpoints of great thinkers regardless of race and other considerations. Check out Dr. Cornel West's books. Real nice! It's great to know that there are great/positive non-clones in other areas than music. The mind-body balance seems to be very important. I've found that striving to achieve a balance in all areas to be more beneficial and will help one stay more positive in spite of the stupid people/situations that we have to deal with.