Hi Jim,

I had a cortisone shot at the base of my right ring finger. I guess it helped some. As you say, focusing on other things can help, and for whatever reason, the pain in my hands is not constant. I also have arthritis at the base of one thumb.

I don't think there's a lot more that can be done beyond what we've discussed. Major joint replacements are possible and successful most times. Hands and feet? Not so much. They haven't figured out how to replace any of the small joints in the hands or feet.

I did have surgery on my big toes due to osteoarthritis/bunions. That was a fusion of the joint and removal of the bony growth. It feels fine, but it's not perfect. And I've never heard of fusing any joint in the hand.

All the best.