Willie Nelson cancels tours through June

LOS ANGELES, May 11 (UPI) -- Willie Nelson has postponed his U.S. tour dates through June 30 because of carpal tunnel syndrome creating pain in his wrist.

The 71-year-old entertainer is expected to reschedule the dates, said Elaine Schock, Nelson's spokeswoman, but he is taking a break on doctor's orders.

"He has been treated with medication, but symptoms persist and doctors have said he needs rest," Schock told UPI Tuesday, adding doctors were unsure whether Nelson will need surgery to alleviate the inflammation in his wrist.

Doctors blamed the affliction on Nelson's years of guitar playing.

"Imagine that!" Schock said.

Nelson's current medical break is not expected to impact his annual Fourth of July Picnic, scheduled this year for the Ft. Worth, Texas, Stockyards, Schock said.