The treatment of degenerative arthritis of the basal joint of the thumb can be divided into non-surgical means to control the symptoms, and surgical procedures to treat the condition. Surgery is usually not considered until it has become impossible to control the symptoms with non-surgical methods.

Treatment usually begins when the joint first becomes painful. This may only occur with heavy use and may simply require mild anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, Tyleno® or Motrin®. Reducing the activity, or changing from occupations that require heavy repetitive gripping with the hand, may be necessary to help control the symptoms. A brace may help support the thumb and reduce the pain experienced with heavy use.

An injection of cortisone into the joint can give temporary relief. Cortisone is a very powerful anti-inflammatory medication when injected into the joint. The resulting pain relief is temporary and usually only lasts several weeks or months. There is a small risk of infection with any injection into the joint, and cortisone injections are no exception.