August 2009 [Volume 8, Issue 8]

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In this issue of To Your Health:

• Postpartum Massage Can Help Speed Emotional Healing
• The Power of Vitamin C
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Not Just for Computer Users Anymore

Postpartum Massage Can Help Speed Emotional Healing

It is not at all unusual for most new mothers to experience mood disorders after the birth of their child. The dramatic shift in hormones, the labor and birth, and general fatigue all contribute to fleeting feelings of sadness. As many as two-thirds of new mothers worldwide experience postpartum blues, also known as "baby blues." The onset generally occurs at about day three and the duration of these transient feelings of sadness is about a week or two. The blues are characterized by weeping, insomnia, fatigue, moodiness, and anxiety but is self-limiting. With some rest, support, sunshine, and compassion, these feelings recede without lasting effects. Since the blues are short-lived, a nurturing massage can be profoundly relaxing and help speed up the emotional healing.

Severe emotional symptoms after giving birth such as feelings of guilt, hopelessness, helplessness, social withdrawal or suicidal thoughts may be an indicator of postpartum depression and you should talk to your doctor immediately. For more information on the symptoms of postpartum depression, read "Postpartum Depression" in Massage Today.

The Power of Vitamin C

Considerable research supports the disease-preventing role of vitamin C, in fact, nearly 100 epidemiological studies have examined the role of vitamin C or vitamin C-rich foods in cancer prevention, finding strong evidence for its role in reducing the risk of cancers of the esophagus, oral cavity, stomach and pancreas, and substantial evidence supporting protection against cancer of the cervix, rectum, breasts and lungs.

Vitamin C also may reduce the risk of suffering a stroke, according to a 2008 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Study participants with the highest levels of plasma vitamin C had a 42 percent lower risk of stroke compared to study participants with the lowest levels of plasma vitamin C.

Foods considered good sources of this vital nutrient include citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, cantaloupe, sweet and white potatoes, broccoli, peppers and leafy greens. The body cannot store leftover amounts, so make sure you get plenty of C every day.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Not Just for Computer Users Anymore

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition associated with repetitive tasks such as computer keyboard use. But what if you don't work on a computer much and are still experiencing wrist and hand pain symptomatic of CTS? Recent research suggests a more reliable source of the problem, albeit also related to positioning: improper sleep position. Most people who sleep in the fetal position (curled up on one side) sleep with their wrists in a fully flexed position (bent backwards under their chin, resting next to their chest). This can cause pressure that ultimately leads to CTS. The most common orthopedic test for CTS is called Phalen's test. Flex both wrists fully and place the back of your hands firmly against each other; an increase of pain in the wrist and/or hand is considered a positive test. Talk to your doctor for more information.

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