Hi @lotsofpain, sorry to hear you are still having pain in your thumb. You will see that I moved your post to the previous discussion that you started on thumb pain. I did this so you can re-connect with the people who responded to you and they don't have to find another post. I'd like to invite back @artscaping, @sueinmn, and @loribmt to the conversation.

@lotsofpain, have you seen an orthopedic physician for this yet?

Have you seen an orthopedic or hand surgeon for diagnosis? Pain from both MCP and CMC joints is similar, treatment differs, but both begin with complete evaluation, progress to hand therapy including splinting, and as a last resort may require surgery.
In each case, strengthening exercises and a properly fitted splint can often help a great deal.
Sue

Thanks for the image @lotsofpain. If I read it correctly, my source point seems to be further towards my wrist and has a good-sized arthritic spur or lump. At this point, I am trying cortisone but that can only happen a few times a year. If I wasn't having a TKR in August, I would explore a surgical fix just like I did for the other thumb.

Now, here's my secret thumb fixer that I shared with you in my last post. "medical cannabis that I use to control my neuropathy pain." Works like a charm and stops those reaching and grabbing related pains. Let us know what your clinician has told you "other than there is nothing you can do?" Would you consider seeking a second opinion?

Thumbs are important elements in our bag of tools. We need to keep them working.

May you be free of suffering and the causes of suffering.
Chris

Me too! I’ve had OT, splints, and cortisone shots….avoiding surgery

I know the pain. It is awful. Soaking your hand in warm water, ( I spent a lot of time doing dishes). Exercises recommended by P.T. The thumb braces work quite well ( the carpal tunnel or other hand braces may help, but are more restrictive. I had steroid injections ( which helped a lot). They will only do a few ( I believe six months apart). I eventually decided (because they would not give me more steroid shots) to have the LRTI surgery. Longer recovery than I had expected. 18 months later, the hand is still stiff at times, 85 percent strength, 90 percent flexion. But, NO CMC PAIN. I am 70 soon, the pain relief was worth the loss of strength, grip, and trust I have in my hand.