I have witnessed drummers banging away until their fingers bleed. I have even done it myself. Any other activity where our hand would be hurt we would stop immediately. What’s that all about?
In psychological terms drumming also is a pain killer. The solace and comfort of a good groove goes a long way toward soothing the soul. The critical mind is put on hiatus. Emotional pain is put on hold if the grove is forgiving, laid back and nurturing.