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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠A Hand Surgeon's Guide to Nail Trauma and Treatment

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, Dr. G discusses nail trauma and treatment, focusing on the anatomy of nails, types of nail injuries, surgical decisions, and recovery expectations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding nail anatomy and the implications of different types of injuries, including subungual hematomas, nail bed lacerations, and avulsion injuries. Dr. G provides insights into when surgery may be necessary and the healing process for nail injuries.

Keywords: nail trauma, nail injuries, nail anatomy, treatment, surgery, recovery, germinal matrix, subungual hematoma, nail bed lacerations, avulsion injuries

Takeaways:

• Nail injuries are common yet often misunderstood.
• Understanding nail anatomy is crucial for treatment.
• Nail injuries fall into three main categories.
• Subungual hematomas can often be treated conservatively.
• Surgery may be needed for severe nail bed injuries.
• The germinal matrix is key to nail growth and appearance.
• Recovery from nail injuries takes time, typically 4-6 months.
• Most nail injuries heal well with proper treatment.
• Consult a professional when in doubt about nail injuries.
• Future nail appearance can be uncertain after injury.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Nail Trauma and Treatment

00:21 Understanding Nail Anatomy

01:48 Types of Nail Injuries

03:10 Surgical Decisions for Nail Injuries

04:35 Recovery and Expectations

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠From Door Slams to Hammers: Understanding Fingertip Injuries

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, the host discusses the prevalence and complexity of fingertip injuries, exploring their anatomy, evaluation, treatment options, and recovery processes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these injuries, proper evaluation, and the need for early motion in recovery. The host also highlights the unique healing capabilities of fingertips and the long-term effects of such injuries.

Keywords: fingertip injuries, nail bed injuries, hand surgery, injury recovery, fingertip anatomy, emergency care, patient evaluation, fingertip treatment

Takeaways:

• Fingertip injuries are more common than you might think.
• Understanding the anatomy of the fingertip is crucial for treatment.
• Not all fingertip injuries require surgery; evaluation is key.
• The fingertip has a remarkable ability to heal over time.
• Early motion is essential to prevent stiffness during recovery.
• Cold intolerance can last for a year or more after injury.
• Proper wound care is vital for healing.
• Most fingertip injuries look better after a few months.
• Patient preferences play a significant role in treatment decisions.
• Fingertip injuries can lead to long-term sensitivity issues.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Fingertip Injuries

04:50 Evaluating Fingertip Injuries

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠How to See a Specialist in 2025 — An Insider's Guide to Making Your Visit Count

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb Podcast, Dr. G shares valuable insights on how to effectively navigate specialist visits in the current healthcare system. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, including organizing symptoms, completing paperwork in advance, and bringing necessary imaging. Dr. G also discusses the significance of asking focused questions to maximize the limited time with a specialist, ultimately aiming to enhance the patient experience and ensure better healthcare outcomes.

Keywords: specialist visits, healthcare tips, patient preparation, medical system, musculoskeletal health

Takeaways:

• Think like a doctor before your visit.
• Organize your symptoms using the doctor's framework.
• Complete paperwork in advance to save time.
• Bring imaging on a physical disk for better care.
• Focus on three to five high-impact questions.
• Quality of questions is more important than quantity.
• Prepare for your appointment to maximize time with the doctor.
• Understand the limitations of the current medical system.
• Use these strategies to navigate specialist visits effectively.
• Share these tips with friends who are waiting for appointments.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Musculoskeletal Health

04:46 Maximizing Your Time with Specialists

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Turkey Carving Injuries — A Hand Surgeon's Guide to Not Ruining Thanksgiving

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Understanding Radial Head and Neck Fractures — What You Need to Know⁠

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, Dr. G discusses radial head and neck fractures, a common elbow injury. He explains the anatomy of the elbow, how these fractures occur, their symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Most fractures do not require surgery, and early movement is crucial for recovery. The episode emphasizes the need for proper evaluation and rehabilitation to prevent long-term stiffness and ensure a smooth return to normal activities.

Keywords: radial head fractures, elbow injuries, musculoskeletal health, treatment options, recovery, rehabilitation, elbow anatomy, diagnosis, symptoms, surgery

Takeaways:

- Most radial head and neck fractures don't need surgery, but proper diagnosis is crucial to make that call.

- Early movement, when appropriate, is your friend in preventing stiffness.

- Make sure to pay attention to your whole arm during recovery, not just the elbow.

- Getting evaluated early gives us the best chance of choosing the right treatment path.

- The elbow joint is where bones come together to allow for movement.

- The top of the radius bone is called the radial head.

- The vast majority of these ligament injuries will heal on their own.

- If the fracture is non-displaced, it just needs a few days in a sling.

- Recovery is typically straightforward with proper care and dedication to rehab.

- Elbows get stiff really quickly after an injury, so early movement is essential.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Radial Head and Neck Fractures

04:06 Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

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Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠"If It Dries, It Dies" — A Surgeon's Guide to Wound Care

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, Dr. Nick Golinvaux discusses essential wound care practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding the stages of wound healing. He provides detailed guidance on caring for surgical and open wounds, the significance of moisture in healing, and the proper approach to scar care. Additionally, he highlights warning signs of infection and the importance of monitoring the healing process.

Keywords: wound care, surgical wounds, open wounds, scar care, infection signs, healing process, musculoskeletal health, first aid, skin care, medical advice

Takeaways:

• All wounds follow the same healing progression, from open wound to closed wound to scar.
• If it dries, it dies. Remember to keep raw open wounds moist with Vaseline or Aquaphor.
• Once wounds are closed, less is more in terms of moisture.
• Watch the trend of your wound's healing; sudden worsening needs medical attention.
• Healing is a progression, and knowing care principles is crucial.
• Surgical wounds should be kept covered for the first five days.
• Open wounds need to stay moist to prevent tissue death.
• Scars take around 9 to 12 months to mature and require sun protection.
• Massage can help thick scars mature faster, but vitamin E oil may not be beneficial.
• Redness around a wound is normal, but excessive redness may indicate infection.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Wound Care

01:14 Understanding Surgical Wound Care

03:35 Open Wound Management

06:40 Scar Care and Healing Process

08:14 Recognizing Warning Signs of Infection

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Dr. G's Rules of Thumb Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Original Article: ⁠⁠ The Sprained Thumb: A 6-Step Guide for Patients

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, Dr. G discusses the common injury known as Skiers' Thumb, detailing its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery timeline. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding this injury for better health outcomes and provides a comprehensive guide for patients.

Keywords:

musculoskeletal health, thumb injury, skier's thumb, UCL injury, thumb sprain, treatment options, recovery timeline, surgery, hand specialist, rehabilitation

Takeaways:

• Musculoskeletal health is crucial for longevity.
• Skiers' thumb is a common injury that can be serious.
• The thumb UCL is vital for pinch stability.
• Diagnosis of Skiers' thumb benefits from a hand specialist.
• MRI is essential for confirming a UCL tear.
• Treatment varies based on the extent of the injury.
• Surgical repair is recommended for complete tears.
• Recovery can take several months, with gradual rehabilitation.
• Understanding the injury helps in making informed health decisions.
• Timely intervention is key to successful recovery.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Musculoskeletal Health

00:39 Understanding Skiers' Thumb

01:04 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Skiers' Thumb

03:35 Treatment Options for Skiers' Thumb

05:05 Surgical Procedures for Skiers' Thumb

06:24 Recovery Timeline After Surgery

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Dr. G's Rules of Thumb Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Original Article: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nutrition and Musculoskeletal Health — What to Eat for Stronger Bones, Joints, and Muscles

Summary:

In this episode of the Rules of Thumb podcast, Dr. G discusses the critical role of nutrition in maintaining musculoskeletal health. He emphasizes the importance of protein for muscle strength, the impact of diet on joint health, and the essential nutrients for bone health. The conversation also covers food choices that support musculoskeletal health and the role of supplements, while cautioning listeners about the unregulated nature of the supplement industry. Ultimately, Dr. G highlights that nutrition is a long-term commitment that requires a balanced approach.

Keywords: nutrition, musculoskeletal health, protein, joint health, bone health, supplements, inflammation, diet, omega-3, antioxidants

Takeaways:

• Nutrition plays a big role in musculoskeletal health.
• Protein is essential for muscle strength and repair.
• Chronic inflammation is linked to joint pain.
• Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption.
• Fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation.
• A variety of nutrient-rich foods is important.
• Supplements should be approached with caution.
• Nutrition is a long-term commitment.
• Balance in diet is key to overall health.
• Regular updates in nutrition science are necessary.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Nutrition and Musculoskeletal Health

01:51 The Importance of Protein for Muscles

03:08 Joint Health and Nutrition

04:13 Understanding Bone Health

05:28 Key Foods for Musculoskeletal Health

08:40 Supplements for Musculoskeletal Support

10:48 Long-Term Nutrition Strategies for Health

Disclaimer:

If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. Do not attempt to contact or obtain medical services through this site. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this site or materials linked from this site is at the user's own risk. The content of this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. The content is my own and does not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.