Bellying (or the bowing outwards of the guitar top and bottom) is caused over time by the upwards and forwards pull of the guitar strings. Amongst other problems, bellying causes the bridge to rise thereby raising the action to the point where the guitar becomes unplayable.


The Bridge Doctor is a removable device that installs easily through the sound-hole. A mounting block is fitting under the bridge via a screw. A tension rod is then installed between the mounting block and the tail-block of the guitar. A grub screw in the mounting block is then tightened against the tension rod. This added tension on the bridge from the JLD Bridge Doctor counteracts the pull of the strings and the warpage of the top.


Here's what some of our eBay purchases think of the product:


  • "Item arrived promptly and just as described, great ebayer many thanks!!!!"
  • "Speedy delivery. Arrived in good condition. Recommend"
  • "Great product. Fast delivery. Have now fitted three of these and all fine"


Further installation notes:


  • The Screw Mount version requires a hole to be drilled through the bridge (which is subsequently covered with an inlay). If taking a drill to your guitar fills you with trepidation, we offer a Brass Pin Mount version which requires no irreversible changes to the instrument (see the separate listing in our eBay shop) – the Brass Pin version is also generally the option to go for if you have a 12-string guitar.
  • The Bridge Doctor will need an imperial Allen key for adjusting which is not supplied.
  • Installing a Bridge Doctor will change the sound of your guitar, primarily because you are attaching something to the underside of the sound-board – the Bridge Doctor affords extra rigidity to the guitar bridge (which thereby tends to increases sustain, volume and enhances certain harmonics) but impacts the vibration characteristics of the sound-board. The overall effect will differ dependent upon various factors such as the shape and size of the guitar in question and the woods used in its construction. Judging by the reviews we have read on the Internet, the majority appear to be saying that the change in sound is for the better, but any such observations are of course subjective.
  • You may find that once the bow in your guitar sound-board has been corrected, the playing action is too low and the bridge needs to be raised. 
  • Don’t be tempted to over-tighten the Bridge Doctor’s dowel sound post upon first installation – be patient, the wood will take time to settle down and become flat again.