Eddie Van Halen recovering from hand surgery.

A legendary guitarist (courtesy of quibicstore.com)

It seems that three decades of being one of the most influential and inventive guitarists has finally had a toll on Eddie Van Halen. He is currently recovering from surgery he had to treat the increasing pain in his left hand.

Van Halen noticed that pain during the band’s last tour, but shrugged it off at first. Later, he says, ““It got progressively worse to the point that about three months ago I wasn’t able to play at all. My pinky and my thumb were totally locked up and felt like there was something broken.” He thought it was arthritis.

After meeting with several specialists in Germany, it was discovered that Van Halen was suffering from much worse issues; a bone spur, twisted tendon and a cyst in the joint of his left thumb. The only option was surgery, which alarmed Van Halen, but in retrospect he is glad the problem was found so quickly, remarking “…in about four months my hand will feel like I am 18 again.”

While waiting the 4-6 months for full rehabilitation, he will continue to write and take things slowly.