Introduction
Shibari is an art form that connects rope, the body, and emotions.
Although known for its aesthetic beauty and delicate connection, Shibari is also a practice that is highly technical and risky, especially when it comes to nerve injury.
This is an issue that rope players, whether they are riggers or bunnies, need to understand clearly.
Because in Shibari, just one incorrectly placed rope or one loop that is too tight can compress the nerves, leading to numbness, muscle weakness, or temporary loss of sensation, or even lasting for several weeks.
The goal of this article is not to scare you, but to help you recognize, prevent, and handle things properly so that each play session is safer and more fulfilling.
1. What is a nerve injury?
Nerves are the signaling system between the brain and the body.
When a nerve is compressed, stretched, or damaged due to pressure, signals will be interrupted, leading to a range of abnormal sensations.
In Shibari, this situation often occurs when the rope:
- Directly compress the area containing major nerves (such as the arm, wrist, thigh)
- Maintaining a fixed position for too long causes the nerves to become strained
- The wire slips or shifts during play, causing uneven pressure
The result is that the bound person (bunny) may feel:
- Tingling, prickling, or burning sensation in the hands, feet, or shoulders
- Temporary loss of sensation in the pinched area of skin
- Muscle weakness or inability to move fingers, wrist
- In severe cases, nerve damage can last for weeks or months.
These injuries do not always occur immediately, so early recognition is extremely important.
2. Common Nerve Injury Positions in Shibari
Below are the areas that commonly have the highest risks when playing with wires:
Radial Nerve - Radial Nerve (in the upper arm)
This is the most vulnerable nerve, especially in positions like Takate Kote (Box Tie) or Armbinder.
It runs along the outer side of the arm, near the position of the strap on the shoulder.
Warning signs:
- Feeling of numbness or tingling in the back of the hand, thumb, and index finger
- Feeling "heavy" or difficult to lift the wrist
Read more: Takate Kote - The Essential Foundation Tie in Shibari
Ulnar Nerve - Ulnar Nerve (at the elbow and wrist)
Often compressed when the strap is too close to the elbow or wrist in positions of being tied behind the back.
Warning signs:
- Numbness in the little finger or ring finger
- The "electric shock" sensation when touching the elbow
Peroneal Nerve - Peroneal Nerve (on the outside of the knee)
Commonly encountered in leg bondage or suspension when the rope is placed around the knee.
Warning signs:
- Numb, weak, or difficult to lift the foot up
- It feels like a prolonged "sleeping leg" sensation
Understanding the structure of the body is the first step in choosing a safer position for the safety harness, especially for those who frequently practice rope.
3. Signs of recognition & timely handling
Not all nerve injuries are serious, but early recognition can help avoid long-term consequences.
Early warning signs:
- Unusual sensations of numbness, tingling, and prickling
- Burning sensation or deep pain in the muscles
- Loss of sensation in the restrained skin area
- Unable to move fingers or hands normally
If you encounter any of these signs, stop playing immediately and remove the cord.
Do not try to "tough it out" to finish the game because when a nerve is compressed for too long, the damage can last for weeks.
After removing the wire:
- Check sensation and motor function
- Gentle massage to promote blood circulation (avoid pressing hard)
- Rest and monitor for 24–48 hours.
- If numbness or muscle weakness persists → see a neurologist or physical therapist.
4. How to Prevent Nerve Injuries in Shibari
There is no technique that guarantees “100% safety,” but there are many ways to minimize the risk.
Below are the basic principles that every rigger and bunny should follow:
1. Learn proper technique
Before attempting complex ties like the Takate Kote, make sure you understand body anatomy and the safe rope zones.
Attending workshops, learning from experienced riggers, and receiving hands-on guidance are always the best choices.
2. Communicate regularly
The bunny should immediately speak up if they feel numbness, tingling, or any unusual pain.
The rigger needs to create an environment where the tied person feels safe to speak up, without the pressure to “endure.”
3. Control rope tension and placement
- Avoid tightening ropes deeply around the upper arms, elbows, and knees.
- Keep the ropes flat and even, without twists or folds.
- When doing suspension, make sure the weight is evenly distributed across all anchor points.
4. Take breaks between sets
If the session lasts long, loosen or change positions every 15–20 minutes to allow blood flow and nerves to rest.
Conclusion
Nerve injuries in Shibari are not uncommon, but they can be completely prevented with proper knowledge, attention, and communication.
Rope play is not only the art of the body, but also the art of care.
Each rope carries a responsibility within it: to the body, to the emotions, and to the person you play with.
When you understand the body, you’ll know where the limits are, and within those very limits, true freedom is born.
