one thing about arthritis is it comes and goes. However the injured area becomes weaker and needs rest and to be protected. I cut the knuckle of my left thumb with a rotary cutter and had to keep it straight with a splint for 10 days. The cut healed beautifully, BUT, I had a secondary problem develop from wearing the splint. Be careful. Not happy at all about it as my hand have been fine the years of knitting. I rested my hand for two days, then went on cutting fabric....bad idea as I compensated by leaning on the palm of my hand. It became so inflamed and dreadfully sore, enough to take pain pills so I could sleep. Sometimes I can feel a problem coming on and stop....mostly when working at the end of the quilt when you have to lift so much fabric. It becomes heavy and my hand shows its weakness. One thing I do to reduce further injury and to give comfort is use green gloves found at JoAnne's for gentle support. I use my Isotoner driving gloves that are stronger and help with reduction of inflamation when needed. I am the Michael Jackson of the grey glove at times. Hey, it is needed!