As I approach my 40s, there’s an intensified urgency I feel to convey a message to younger generations—especially those in their thirties. Having been born early in the demographic wave that distinguishes us from the Baby Boomers, I’ve entered that peculiar stage of life where attending a concert can sometimes come with physical consequences.
About six years ago, I began to notice a persistent discomfort in my right foot, which was later diagnosed as plantar fasciitis. There was no specific injury; rather, it felt like my body had conspired against me overnight. Gone were the days of wearing stylish heeled boots or trendy flats. Instead, I was introduced to a world of heel stretches, custom orthotics, and sensible clogs designed for arch support. I reassured myself that if the music was captivating, no one would notice my footwear. With that resolve, I donned my orthopedic shoes and enjoyed shows, from a Black Keys concert at a stadium to a Book of Love reunion in a dimly lit venue. I thought perhaps foot issues would be my only challenge.
However, my body had other plans. A minor strain in my right shoulder, incurred while playing fetch with my dog, gradually escalated into a debilitating condition known as capsulitis, or Frozen Shoulder syndrome. This isn’t the whimsical Disney version; it’s the kind that prevents me from raising my arm above my ribcage or reaching behind to zip up a dress. Most disappointingly, I can no longer wave my arms in the air during a concert without sharp pain radiating through my shoulder. At a recent party, while dancing to “Blister in the Sun” by the Violent Femmes, I misjudged a shoulder movement during a particularly spirited moment, resulting in such excruciating pain that I had to kneel down to recover.
The shoulder specialist I consulted remarked that this condition is common among women aged 40 to 60. My hairdresser chimed in with a personal anecdote, suggesting that menopause might be next on my journey. I can only assume that an invitation to join AARP is imminent, perhaps mailed in an envelope labeled “EZ 2 Open for Frozen Shoulder Sufferers!”
In the next few weeks, I’ve lined up five concerts to attend, ranging from The Replacements to Jenny Lewis to an intimate house concert featuring a folk artist named Robby Hecht. While I’m thrilled, I’m also developing strategies to stand in ways that minimize shoulder contact. I’ve even practiced a few dance moves in the mirror that keep my hands at waist level.
The frozen shoulder may be a hurdle, but the more significant pain is the realization that someday, I’ll look back at this time as the “good old days.” I envision future conversations reminiscing about when I could still navigate a crowd without a walker or hear the music without the aid of hearing devices—though if I do need hearing aids, it may well be a consequence of too many concerts!
To my fellow thirty-somethings who feel overwhelmed by parenting duties, work commitments, and endless obligations: this is why we have babysitters and quick meals. Take advantage of them generously. Relish the opportunity to enjoy live music while you still can. There will come a time when the lead singer belts out a lyric about pain, and you’ll find yourself nodding in deep understanding.
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In summary, attending concerts in your 40s can be both exhilarating and physically challenging. As you navigate this stage of life, embrace the joy of music while you can, and don’t underestimate the toll it may take on your body.
Keyphrase: Experiencing Live Music in Your 40s
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