Pianists and thumb base arthritis

It seems this is a common problem - wear and tear (osteo) arthritis at the thumb base in pianists. I have been fortunate to have a wonderful patient - Richard Meyrick - who has very kindly made a blog to help other musicians who may have tried all conservative measures (splints, hand therapy, steroid injections) and now need to consider surgery for this condition.

Richard has confirmed that he is happy for his video to be made widely available for the benefit of others. A word of caution though - Richard has done exceptionally well after this surgery. Surgery is fickle - infection, stiffness, weakness, scar hypersensitivity, persistent pain - can all stymie our best intentions. Richard also worked very diligently on his rehabilitation. I was also fortunate to have Mr Ian Winspur sit in and supervise me doing his first operation.