Specialist hand surgery at Spire Parkway Hospital helps patient regain hand function and confidence

• Specialist thumb joint replacement surgery helps patient return to an active lifestyle 

Spire Parkway Hospital supported Karen Harley in regaining her comfort, confidence and independence following specialist joint replacement treatment for right basal thumb arthritis. 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 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. 

“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,” said Karen.

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.

With access to medical insurance, Karen chose Spire Parkway Hospital for her treatment under the care of Consultant Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgeon Mr Feiran Wu.

“I wanted Mr Wu to manage my condition and subsequently perform my surgery, because of his specialist expertise in hand surgery and the confidence his experience gave me” she said. 

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.

Mr Feiran Wu, Consultant Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgeon at Spire Parkway Hospital, 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.” 

Karen described her experience at Spire Parkway Hospital as reassuring and supportive. “The staff were excellent - friendly yet professional, informative and caring, from ward to theatre. They put you at ease, and the time I spent in theatre was managed extremely well.” 

Following surgery, Karen experienced minimal discomfort and a smooth recovery. “I had a nerve block, so I had no adverse effects from a general anaesthetic. As the block wore off, I had minimal pain and only occasional pain relief was required,” she explained. 

Since her procedure, Karen has enjoyed a significant improvement in her quality of life. “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,” she said. 

 Karen Harley enjoying gardening again following thumb joint replacement surgery

Emily Montgomery, Hospital Director at Spire Parkway Hospital, added: “At Spire Parkway Hospital, we focus on personalised care that helps people get back to living life fully. Karen’s experience reflects our commitment to high quality treatment, expert consultants and compassionate care at every stage.” 

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.