Thumb Splint Needed

I was just diagnosed with Dequervains tendonitis in both hands.  Has anyone ever heard of this?  My family doctor wants me to see an orthopedic but the one I go to for the osteoathritis in my knees I am not pleased with.  I don't know whether to find a doctor or just put some kind of splint on my thumbs and wrist.  Suggestions appreciated.

[turtletox]

In my early teen years, I'm 20 now, brown spots began to cover
my hands. The spots felt weird to the touch. I was taken to the
doctor's for it. I gave me a seperate appointment to test the skin;
however, they set the appt. on a day they were closed. VERY NICE.
Weeks later, the spots went away. Soon after, my hands started to ache.
Stiffness of joints, painful, & burning inflamation (inflammation). Have not done anything
about it. The pains and stiffness have spread to my wrists, back, shoulders,
hips, knees, ankles, and feet. I would go get it all checked out, but not
enough funds for it.. Question? ... Any suggestions on what form of arthrits
it could possibly be??

[txsilver]

I was not familiar with your condition so I went and read about it.  Based on what I read, you might get by with splints but it would probably be better to use this as an opportunity to find a new osteo that you like.  That way you get the anti inflammatory meds and also have a head start in case, heaven forbid, you need surgery.  Please let us know how you are doing.

[txsilver]

Your condition sounds like it needs to be investigated by a doctor.  Find a free clinic in your area and make an appointment.  Chronic pain should not be ignored and early diagnosis and treatment are key to successful outcomes.

[ChitChatNine]

My daughter as a teen had this TWO TIMES and both times it was so severe she had to have it put into a cast.  It is a cousin to Carpal Tunnel, but not quite the same .. as I understand it, this is caused by the tendon sheath becoming inflammed and the tendon cannot move properly and thus excruciating pain .. my daughter had extensive swelling from it.  Hers started from Bandminton the first time and the 2nd time from pouring coffee at her job at a fast food rest.  She poured with her right hand and bcz she is lefty, it was the weaker of the two and the AM bkfst shifts must have caused it since she repetivley was pouring the coffee all morning long. She figured out the coffee relationship cuz she quit the job for a year and when she ret'd so did the syndrome full force and effect.  

C~