Hi focusonyousalon. Yes, people in the medical profession that actually listen to their patients are the best, those that don't listen are of little value.
I use CBD with a touch of thc, and I find the oils work better than the salves.
Just based on the research I've done for my own arthritic thumbs, there are a number of surgical procedures for thumb cmc joint repair depending on what you want as the outcome, and how much risk you are prepared to take - they don't all work for everyone. LRTI, Tightrope, Speedspiral are all good pain relief procedures, but they may cost you full pinch strength - forming an "O" between your thumb and your index finger and squeezing. The trapezium is removed, and there is no bone support to the joint. Two other procedures are Stablyx and Bio Pro, which keep the trapezium, but use an insert into the cmc bone to rebuild the joint. I had the Stablyx procedure done last November, have good pinch strength, but it is still tight and can be as painful as before surgery first thing in the morning until things loosen up with use. I will likely have the same done to my other thumb.
Whatever you decide, you were given some good advice to shop around for a knowledgeable and experienced surgeon who listens to your needs.
Good luck, and take care.
GregV