Can I still learn to play bass if I have arthritis/hand injuries/etc.?
Our first piece of advice is to consult with your doctor – we know a lot about bass, but we're not doctors and can't give medical advice.
I have personally had students with varying levels of arthritis, and their doctors cleared them to play bass and they had a great time.
If you have another issue, like maybe a missing finger from an accident or something, you can still play bass. You can even play most bass lines with one finger on each hand if you have to.
Plenty of inspiring musicians have made it work with their unique situations – like Django Reinhardt and Tony Iommi – so whatever you’re dealing with, don’t let it stop you from becoming a badass.