How to Not Spend Thanksgiving in the ER


November 23, 2024

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Good morning. Thanksgiving week has arrived. That means just six more days until you can take off your headphones and openly listen to that Christmas music you've been sneaking since Halloween.

To my American readers, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

To my international readers, I'm sorry that I will never be able to explain to you why we have an entire holiday centered around a dry, tasteless meat that we generally refuse to eat the remainder of the year.

☝️ First Hand

The perfect turkey has been roasted, the sides are ready, and the family's gathered around — but before you pick up that carving knife, you might want to read this.

Every Thanksgiving, hand surgeons across the country brace themselves for an influx of carving-related injuries that turn holiday celebrations into emergency room visits. What most people don't realize is that a simple slip of the knife can cut critical tendons and nerves, turning a momentary mistake into months of recovery.

Even more frustrating? These injuries are almost always preventable.

In this week's article, I'll discuss the crucial mistakes to avoid and share a few tips to keep your holiday celebrations in the dining room — not the emergency room.

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👀 X-ray of the Week 👀

Not to be the world's BIGGEST buzzkill. But want to know how this kid shattered his femur?

Yup. Playing a pickup football game with friends/family on Thanksgiving.

I know, I know, I shouldn't have told you this. It's borderline cruel.

My biggest parenting challenge is going to be "How on earth do I let my kids do anything fun?"

🕰️ Meme Time 🕰️

🩸 Finger on the Pulse 🩸

🐛 The Very Healthy Caterpillar: This story is eerily reminiscent of how penicillin was discovered. Ushering in the age of antibiotics — and huge gains in human lifespan. Could this be next?

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-Dr. G

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