i just started (trying) playing (alto) and after holding sax for 20-30 mins my thumb (right hand) becomes very sore & stiff, is there anything i can use to add some sort of padding or support??? or does it go away after playing for awhile?? thanks for any assistance!!

Your thumb should not be hurting check your thumb rest adjustment, and check your adjustment on your strap you should be able to put the horn directly without pushing up on the horn.

CJ

The same thing happened when I first started to play bassoon. My fingers felt cramped and stiff, but it went away after a while.

yes, i am using a neck strap, and i think it might have been that the strap wasn't holding most of the weight and i was trying to support the whole sax with my thumb?? ha ha ha plus i think it has eased a little bit now, maybe its also cause i'm doing something new with my thumb, i guess i will just have to practice longer !!! until i get use to it! ha ha thanks for all the suggestions!

Make sure your fingers are in a natural curve. Someone I know plays with his top hand about 6 inches above the black button. Make sure it feels good. Sore fingers are not good.