Hand Arthritis | Bill's Story

Bill developed hand arthritis in his left hand that started to affect his ability to play guitar and affect his job as a sign language interpreter. The pain of #arthritis in his hand, led to Bill seeking care with a hand surgeon at Johns Hopkins Orthopaedics.

Dr. Dawn LaPorte, Bill's physician, talked to him about all options that could help alleviate the pain. Ultimately, Bill decided to move forward with a thumb CMC Arthoplasty (thumb joint replacement). Following the surgery, Bill had the help of the Johns Hopkins Rehabilitation Network's occupational therapist, Jyo Supnekar, to regain function and strength in his hand. Bill is now back to playing guitar and working as a sign language interpreter with no pain thanks to the team at #JohnsHopkins.

[hottotty]

I’m 51 and for the last 5 weeks I’ve had pain while playing bass that unfortunately is looking like that same issue. Being so early into I plan to explore some topical remedy’s but thanks for the assurance that surgery is a great option if required. 🙏🏻

[wtibbs]

Bill, thank you so much for posting this... This is very, very encouraging for me... My left hand has the arthritis as well, it's in my thumb and index finger. I also seem to have weakness when trying to form a couple of bar chords.. I get the pain most when trying to form the open Am and C chords. Calling the hand specialist here in Kansas City... 👊😎🎼❤️

[jaderose]

🌸✨ Thankyou for sharing your expertise and your skills to improve patients lives.

[capeheartriz]

I have basal thumb OA. not great for guitar players. I do mostly solo jazz harmony and its a killer. So far no surgery just braces and massage. Surgeon did not recommend surgery unless, or until it gets must worse. Apparently, its a hit or miss surgery with some improving, others not. He is lucky to have access to Johns Hopkins. Most of us will have to deal with local hospitals and surgeons.

[robertcanedo]

I started to learn guitar at 72, which I’m sure affected my progress, due to mild arthritis and slower nerve twitching. I’ve considered stem cell therapy, but not sure it’ll make a big difference.

[davidsparks]

My arthritis was in my ring finger joint (Left hand) ... Dr Elzik removed the arthritic material and put in a Swanson hinge. I just had the stiches out and I'm in my 2nd week of therapy. I have been a guitar player since 1970 and it is an essential part of my life. I'm hoping to get back to it within the next 2 months - I cheat all the time though and play with 2 fingers. LOL

[soundtracks]

I want to have surgery also but i can't afford the expenses 😔 im suffering for almost 5 yrs now on my right wirst.

[shredd]

Is the help permanent? Or temporary solution? I'm suffering from the same thing, also a guitarist

[Gtownblues]

Bill, how long ago was your surgery? I’ve gotten to the point where both of my thumbs are killing me constantly, now my left wrist is blowing up. Rheumatologist just shoots steroids in me with no luck, now diminishing return. I’m outside of D.C. and would like to ask the name of your surgeon if possible. Thanks and I’m glad you’re feeling better!

[TheREVIEWGUY-ipwm]

I got crippling arthritis in both hands im only 43

[SingleMalt]

My problem is the buckle next to the nail on my left hand's little finger. Is this surgery available for that?

[johne]

Do/did you experience any numbness post recovery?

[mattgilbert]

Happy for Bill.
However.
I can't afford surgery.

Probably have 5 years of playing left in me.