I came to see Dr. Ark after another orthopedist had basically brushed me off after prescribed physical therapy did not help. X-rays had been performed, and I was told that they could try cortisone injections, but that was all they would recommend because they did not think that I needed to consider therapy. Once the cortisone shots failed, they had no recommendations!
As a classical pianist, I found this very frustrating because it is imperative that I have complete use of my hand. Dr. Ark listened to me carefully, requested x-rays to be done, and explained the options available to me. He was honest about the time required between surgeries and the fact that he could not predict the outcome. He recommended using an autograft instead of an artificial implant because there was less chance of rejection.
I had the first surgery in 10/2013 and the second in 03/2014. The end result is that the continuous pain that I had in both thumbs has been alleviated to the point that in 12/2014 I applied to the Master of Music program in piano performance at Westminster Choir College. Last month, I received an acceptance letter together with the maximum scholarship that they could award.
I cannot thank Dr. Ark and his assistant, Howard, enough. They gave me back an important part of my life. They understood how important this was and gave me their complete attention. The staff at POA was always supportive and cheerful. My experience was positive, and I know that I have orthopedists that I can trust. I would recommend that anyone, especially serious musicians who need to have their concerns treated seriously, to contact Dr. Ark.
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