Thumb Dislocation

[steveie986]

About nine years ago (when I was ten), I dislocated my right thumb playing goalie. It healed ok but it still feels a little different. I started piano about a year later and at first I didn't have any problems. But once I started playing harder things with fast legato passages I started having some trouble. When I play fast, my thumb locks up almost 90 degrees outward (I have hitchhiker's thumb) and it's physically very hard to play with it in a relaxed position. My left thumb is fine.

Basically, when I depress a key with my right thumb, it's almost physically impossible to unlock the phalanx joint. Does anyone know of any exercises I can do to strengthen my thumb? There could be some permanent ligament damage, but I want to at least try to fix it.

Also, when I make the fig gesture with both hands and compare the shape of the thumbs' metacarpal joints, they definitely look different. The metacarpal joint of my left thumb protrudes outward whereas my right joint is fairly smooth (for all you doctors out there).

Any help would be appreciated.

[nicco]

I think i would go see a doctor or some kind of Physiotherapist instead of asking anyone here about such a serious problem. In my opinion, physical problems should never be treated over the internet.

[steveie986]

But... but... this is the piano forum. I can ask you guys anything. You guys are the only friends I have in the world. *sob*

[nicco]

Hehe, if you say so. I just think i would choose the doctors opinion before the "strangers on piano forum" opinion. Im not saying you couldnt ask the people here, (Im sure there are people with knowlegde in most areas here), just consult with an expert before you go do some devastating excersize that will ruin you for good