Single Small Joint Replacement in Finger Treatment in India

Ayaan Das, 58, is a classical...

Ayaan Das, 58, is a classical tabla player and teacher from Kolkata. His livelihood and passion depend on the dexterity of his hands. Over the past five years, he developed severe, grinding pain and stiffness in the middle joint of his right index finger, diagnosed as post-traumatic osteoarthritis from an old, forgotten injury. The joint became swollen and locked, making it impossible to position his finger correctly on the drumhead. His melodies were replaced by frustration and fear of losing his career. His orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Rao, recommended a single small joint replacement (arthroplasty) to relieve pain and restore functional motion. Ayaan was terrified that surgery might end his playing forever but felt he had no choice. The procedure went smoothly. Post-surgery, guided by a hand therapist, he diligently performed gentle exercises. After three months of dedicated rehabilitation, the pain was gone, and he regained about 75% of his normal range of motion. While his finger doesn't have the hypermobility of his youth, it is stable and pain-free. He can play again, adapting his technique slightly. The emotional relief was profound, he moved from a place of deep anxiety and loss to one of grateful adaptation, reclaiming not just a finger but his identity and purpose.