AN AVID gardener has regained her comfort, confidence and independence thanks to specialist joint replacement treatment for right basal thumb arthritis.
Karen Harley first noticed symptoms approximately one year before surgery. Despite undergoing steroid injections, her pain continued to worsen and began to affect both her work and activities she enjoyed in her daily life.
As an advanced nurse practitioner in Primary Care, Karen’s professional role became challenging, causing her to adapt how she carried out her job due to the discomfort in her dominant hand.
This common condition affects the joint at the base of the thumb and can cause pain, stiffness and weakness, making everyday activities such as gripping, lifting and writing difficult.
Karen said: “The pain gradually got worse and simple everyday tasks became more difficult. I enjoy weight training and love gardening, but the pain limited my enjoyment and time I spent doing them.”
With access to medical insurance, Karen chose Spire Parkway Hospital in Solihull for her treatment under the care of consultant Hand, Wrist and Elbow surgeon Feiran Wu.
Karen underwent a total joint replacement at the base of her thumb, an advanced procedure designed to reliably relieve pain, improve movement, and help patients regain the confidence and ability to do what they love with their hands.
Since her procedure, Karen has enjoyed a significant improvement in her quality of life.
She said: “I am now able to do everyday tasks without pain. I am gradually lifting heavier weights, spending more time in the garden and my job is no longer affected.”
Karen has now made a full recovery and is back to her professional role and daily routines without pain, grateful for the outcome and her renewed freedom and confidence in her day-to-day life.
Mr Wu said: “Thumb arthritis can have a real impact on quality of life, particularly when it affects work, independence and hobbies. Karen was fully involved in her treatment decisions, and it has been wonderful to see how much she has benefited from her thumb joint replacement surgery.”
