What do i do for thumb joint discomfort?

RICE: Rest, immobilization, cold and exersice. Thumb joint pain, especially at the base, is usually arthritis. I start with a brace and oral steroids and if pain persists, injections and therapy follow. If i can't relieve the pain and x-rays show arthritis, i will procede with arthroplasty. Surgery consists of removing the arthritic bone and replacing it with tendon.