Does arthritis in the thumb progress usually? starting to have pain in my thumb. had xray and dr says arthritis/good candidate for surgery. need cyst removed and think maybe both done at same time. thumb not extremely painful yet, worried too soon?

Yes: Due to our reliance on our hands arthritis does tend to progress. Would definitely suggest getting second opinion as well as working with physical therapy and rheumatologist to optimize your treatment and function before turning to surgery. Even nutrition can influence your arthritis. Also if Rheumatoid Arthritis need for surgery eventually may be more likely.