I am afraid your wife will require a little more rest, medication and physiotherapy for her hand. She has developed osteoarthritis of the joint. The treatment includes:
1. Rest.
2. Ask your doctor to prescribe her a combination of paracetamol and brufen to relieve pain.
3. She can do cryotherapy (with ice) for her hand.
4. Start small range active movements with maximum relaxation without exerting any stress on the involved joint.
5. Gradually, exercises for strength and grasp should be introduced.
6. If the pain is unbearable your therapist will guide you for the splint to keep the hand in elevation. Please do not do any massage. Within two weeks, she should be much better.