Patrick J. McDaid, M.D.

The holiday season brings decorating, baking, cooking, gift wrapping, traveling, and plenty of outdoor winter activities. Unfortunately, all that extra activity can also put added stress on your hands, wrists, elbows, and forearms. From overuse injuries to unexpected falls, here are some common upper-extremity problems that can occur during the holidays and ways to help prevent them. Decorating-Related Injuries Hanging lights, carrying boxes, putting up decorations, and climb

Our fingers rely on a complex system of tendons and joints working together to perform everyday tasks, from buttoning a shirt to typing on a keyboard. When an injury disrupts this delicate balance, it can result in a condition known as Boutonnière deformity, which affects the finger's ability to straighten properly. Although the name may sound unusual, recognizing the symptoms early and seeking prompt treatment can help prevent long-term stiffness and loss of function. What

When most people experience pain in their hands or elbows, they often assume the problem is isolated to that specific area. However, the human body functions as an interconnected system known as the kinetic chain, where each joint, muscle, tendon, and bone works together to produce efficient movement. When one link in that chain becomes painful, weak, or dysfunctional, other parts of the body are often forced to compensate, potentially leading to discomfort, and reduced perfo

If you've ever felt pain along the thumb side of your wrist while lifting a baby, carrying groceries, or even picking up your phone, you may be experiencing a condition known as De Quervain's tenosynovitis, often nicknamed "Mommy Wrist." While the condition is common among new mothers, it can affect anyone who performs repetitive hand and wrist movements. What Is De Quervain's Tenosynovitis? De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition involving the tendons that help mo

Golf may appear to be a low-impact sport, but the repetitive nature of the swing places significant stress on the hands, wrists, elbows, and forearms. Whether you're a weekend golfer or a seasoned player, these joints are critical to generating power, maintaining control, and delivering a consistent swing. Unfortunately, they are also some of the most common areas for injury. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for golf-related wrist and elbow injuries c