Why Do My Lips Go Numb After Playing the Trumpet?

Why Do My Lips Go Numb After Playing the Trumpet?

1. Introduction Lip numbness after playing a brass instrument is the result of prolonged mechanical compression that restricts blood flow and irritates the superficial sensory nerves of the orbicularis oris muscle. The rigid metal mouthpiece pressed firmly against the soft tissues causes temporary ischemia, depriving the nerves of oxygen. This lack of perfusion disrupts normal … Read more