Oh good Sue! Apparently, epidural steroid shots are ok to have when you have MAC. The thumb shot should help you for a bit. You just have to be careful of the frequency. I have needed a surgery where they take a tendon from your forearm and use that tendon in your thumb as a cushion. It is quite involved. My brother, who is a pianist, had it done in Boston on both thumbs. It was successful! Not having use of your hands due to the pain of arthritis is no fun. Irene