Liz Willoughby on tue 14 sep 04
Hello Lowell Ann,
I have been meaning to put up a post regarding sciatica, hip
bursitis, and all those other inflammations of surrounding tissues
that happen when one has back problems. After years of throwing
sitting, and having pain, especially when getting up, I finally
raised my wheel on cement blocks. What a difference it makes. I am
sitting on a bar stool, with my legs extended, feet on the floor, and
can stand when throwing tall pieces. I haven't got it all sorted out
yet, but with practice and innovation in techniques for throwing, I
know it will become easier and more natural. As many people know,
John Glick throws standing, leaning against two cushions, one in the
lumbar region, and one over the buttocks. These are attached to a
wall. He also does a routine of exercises every day to strengthen
his muscles. He did have a laminectomy years ago.
So folks, as we age, leaning over in the manner that we do to throw,
is simply not good for our backs. A lot has to do with our
individual torso's, and how susceptible we are to degenerative disc
disease or osteoarthritis.
I certainly would recommend raising your wheel, if you have pain. It
was almost impossible for me to throw, can't believe the difference
it makes.
If throwing gives pain, ya gotta figure out a way to do it to
alleviate it. Just wish that I had done it earlier.
Best regards,
Meticky Liz from Grafton, Ontario, Canada
where I just had a successful studio tour, and will be off to Ottawa
this week-end to give a workshop, and I have requested that the wheel
be raised on cement blocks.
>Hi All, I am very interested in the discussions re ""Throwing large amounts
>of Clay". I am having lots of problems with sciatica and low back pain
>coming form the SI joint (too many pregnancies, they say) ...and must throw
>in the best possible way if I wish to continue. So here are a few questions
>of clarification...
>
>My question is what is a good height of wheel and stool. I have a Shimpo VL
>Whisper and am considering buying the Creative Industries stool ST-1 (even
>though it is very expensive) in order to lessen my discomfort at the wheel.
>Any low sitting really bothers me ie in a car. I am not really wanting to
>stand all the time either!
>
>Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
>
>Lowell Ann
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