Hello all,

Just wanted to add.  De Quervain's Syndrome can happen at much the same time
as Carpal Tunnel.  De Quervain's affects the ring and middle fingers: Carpal
Tunnel affects thumb through 4th digit.  Both can be seen with repetitive
stress injuries (as in using the computer in a poor position, prolonged
handwriting, cashiering, other jobs using hands) as well as in arthritis,
pregnancy, thyroid disease and diabetes.  In the gatekeeping environment HMO
care in the US it might be very difficult to directly access an Orthopedic
Surgeon.  Finding a really good Family Medicine Specialist can be really
helpful towards getting clarity on the diagnosis.

Yes, the braces at night may help (along with stretching exercises, non
steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDS), massage, acupuncture and steroid
injections and surgery).  Being allergic to NSAIDS and wanting neither
steroid injections or surgery, I opted for the splinting, stretching, massage
and acupuncture.  It seems that upping my daily intake of Calcium and
Magnesium helped.  Also using a baby sling can give those mama hands a
welcome rest.

I think it is a REALLY good idea to make sure there are no underlying causes.
 This stuff can really hurt (gave me 2 1/2 more months of postpartum
disability as I could not use my hands to examine patients or write notes).
I had Carpal tunnel on my right hand; De Quervain's on the left.  The splints
used for the different syndromes are shaped differently.  This was definitely
a fashion statement when I sometimes had to wear them during the day.

Anecdotally, I have heard there is a connection between Post Partum
Depression and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?  Anyone know of any studies published?

Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, MD, FAAP
Modesto CA

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