Most people are aware of the harm that smoking causes to the heart and lungs. In 1964 the U.S. Surgeon General released the landmark report linking tobacco use and lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Since then, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and primary-care physicians have helped to educate the public about the risks. However, the negative effects of tobacco […]
Professional rock climber, and arguably one of the best rock climbers in the world, Tommy Caldwell, climbed the 3,000 foot vertical face of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. He pioneered a new route to the top along the sheer, granite cliff, known at the Dawn Wall, which was previously thought to be an impossible […]
Common carpal tunnel symptoms include: In most cases, the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is based on symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. A steroid injection into the carpal tunnel (cortisone shot) can be used for treatment and to help make the diagnosis. An electrodiagnostic study (nerve conduction study or EMG) can be ordered to […]
Thumb arthritis is a common cause of thumb pain. At the base of the thumb is a special joint called the carpo-meta-carpal (CMC) joint. The thumb CMC gives our thumbs a wide range of thumb motion. The ability to touch the thumb to the small finger is called “opposition.” This function makes human hands special. […]
Tumors of the hand and upper extremity are surprisingly common. They can occur in people of all ages — from children to the elderly. Fortunately, the vast majority of these tumors are benign, NOT cancerous. Nevertheless, every tumor should be carefully evaluated. Benign tumors which do not cause pain, dysfunction, or problems do not require […]
Trigger finger is a condition affecting any of the fingers or thumb in the hand — not just the index finger. Symptoms occur when there is catching between the flexor tendons of the hand and the sheath which surrounds the tendons. Instead of gliding smoothly through the sheath, the tendons can meet resistance within the […]
Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis typically presenting with a red, hot, swollen, extremely painful joint. Gout frequently affects joints in the big toe, ankle or knee but can happen elsewhere. Gout can also involve the fingers, wrist and elbow. A “gout attack” usually starts suddenly and the pain increases rapidly. Because of […]
Most snakes in North Carolina are non-venomous. These snakes are not dangerous to humans. The two families of venomous snakes in North Carolina include the Viperidea and Elapidae families. The Copperhead, Cottonmouth (often called “water moccasins”), Eastern Diamondback, and Timber Rattlesnake are examples of pit vipers in the Viperidea Family. Pit Vipers make up approximately […]
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve problem in the arm. It results from increased pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, within the carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a type of “pinched nerve.” The symptoms are usually worse at night and can wake patients up from sleep. The word “carpus” is […]
