Ps 150,
Apparently there are a lot of members of the Quilters With Arthritis Club. Definitely a club no one wants to join! Based on advice from folks on this message board, I have done a few things to help me quilt even though I have arthritis in my hands.
I use a Supreme Slider with I free motion quilt -- it certainly helps. I also just purchased a sewing table so my sewing surface is now flush with the table surface. What an improvement! My particular sewing table is made by Tracey's Tables, and I really like it. I change blades in my rotary cutter often -- if it is the least bit hard to cut, then the blade needs to be replaced.
Even with medication for the pain, I find that some days, I just can't sew. I've learned to go with the flow and not let that bother me. My arthritis seems to be worse on some days, better on others, so I've learned to be grateful for those good days.
Arthritis is not something I would wish for anyone, but I can think of MANY conditions that are worse, so I try to keep that in perspective.
As you can see by the many replies to this thread, there are a lot of quilters in a situation similar to yours. Don't be discouraged! I hope you can find some advice here that will help, and will keep you quilting for many years to come.