Not quite your situation, but I had an op for carpel tunnel a while back. It seemed at first to be alright, then I started getting pains in my hands. I have just been diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis, I am now on Methotexate and Folic acid. I still have pain in my hands and am very stiff in my arms and hands in the morning.
If I were you I would consult your doctor, let him know your concerns, he will advise you what's best.
This is a good website about arthritis, you could contact them and ask advice too.
http://www.arc.org.uk/arthinfo/patpubs/6025/60 25.asp
I wish you well whatever you do, and I hope for a pain free future.