Left index finger hurts after playing flute

[Amy]

When I play the flute I rest it on my index finger on the bottom 'segment' just above the knuckle. It hurts after a while and I'm wondering if it's one of those things that I'll get used to or if I'm playing wrong. I'm only self-taught and I'm originally a clarinet player doubling on alto and tenor saxophones but lately I've become interested in the flute. I know you're all going to tell me to get a teacher, and I think I will ask my clarinet teacher for a few starter lessons to get me on the right track (she plays flute too).

So have I developed a bad habit?

[Ivy]

Hi Amy. It sounds like you're holding the flute correctly. If you are a very recent beginner, you may just be getting used to the instrument- things like getting dizzy from hyperventilation and tired arms. These things go away.

There is a plastic attachment which clips on to the area where you support your flute. It distributes the weight of the flute to a larger area so that the flute seems lighter. I also find that it fascilitates the movement of the index finger. The product is made by Bo-pep. You can get it for large hands or small hands. I think woodwind and brasswind carries this product. This might help you.

[Gordon (NZ)]

From what you write it is impossible to tell if you are holding the flute appropriately. Get a teacher!!! Even if it is only for one lesson. And make sure it is a FLUTE teacher. Although it is possible, it is rather unlikely that a clarinetist who doubles on flute knows much about appropriate holding of a flute, or anything else pertinent to the details of flute playing.