I've experienced a "trigger thumb" twice, both times requiring a cortisone shot. Incidentally, the shots do work but it's not instantaneous. About a week after you receive it one day you'll just realize the pain is gone and complete mobility has returned. Mine is always triggered by excessive crocheting or knitting. When I feel it coming on I usually immobilize it at night with a couple of bandaids over the joints and it does help a lot. I do take Osteo Biflex and even though it's been great for my lower back and R) hip I've not noticed any help when my thumb flairs up.