A metacarpal fracture involves a break in one of the long, tubular bones of the hand that connect the wrist to the fingers. Each finger (digit) has a corresponding metacarpal bone, and any of these bones can be fractured during a high-energy impact. Metacarpal fractures are especially common among athletes, particularly those involved in boxing, […]
Metacarpal Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and First Aid Read More »
A splint is used to protect and stabilize a fracture, sprain, or other musculoskeletal injury by limiting movement and reducing pain while healing begins. In Canada, splinting is a core skill taught in Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced First Aid courses, particularly for workplace safety, outdoor response, and emergency preparedness. If a removable splint is prescribed,
Splint Care and Injury Support: First Aid Guidance for Canadians Read More »
A dislocated shoulder most commonly occurs after falling onto an outstretched arm. In this injury, the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the shoulder socket. Once properly treated and restored into place, recovery usually takes 12–16 weeks, depending on severity. The shoulder joint is particularly vulnerable because it sits
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A knee dislocation occurs when the end of the femur (thighbone) is no longer aligned with the tibia (shinbone). This is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate assessment in a hospital setting, as it can damage major blood vessels and nerves in the leg. In many cases, a knee dislocation happens when the
Knee Dislocations: Recognition, Emergency Care, and Recovery (Canada) Read More »
An artificial joint can become infected when bacteria enter the body during or after joint replacement surgery. In some cases, these infections can be prevented by taking antibiotics before certain medical or dental procedures. Once an artificial joint becomes infected, treatment is often complex and may require joint replacement surgery and long-term antibiotic therapy. Joint
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Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint condition that develops in some individuals who have psoriasis affecting the skin or nails. The joints most commonly affected include the knees, hips, spine, and the joints closest to the tips of the fingers and toes. Although psoriatic arthritis closely resembles rheumatoid arthritis, it does not produce
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A meniscus tear is a common knee injury, particularly among athletes involved in sports that require sudden pivoting, twisting, or direct contact—such as football, basketball, soccer, and tennis. In Canada, meniscus injuries are frequently seen in sports, recreation, and workplace settings that involve physical exertion. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts
Meniscus Tear: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Considerations Read More »
Big toe arthritis—often called arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint—is a progressive condition that can significantly affect walking, balance, and weight-bearing. It develops when the smooth cartilage in the joint wears down and bone spurs form, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced motion. From a first aid and workplace safety perspective, big toe arthritis matters
Big Toe Arthritis: First Aid Awareness, Mobility Risks, and Workplace Safety in Canada Read More »
Big toe pain can make even simple movements uncomfortable. The first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint connects the big toe to the forefoot and plays a major role in balance, walking, and weight transfer. Although small, this joint absorbs significant force with every step. From a first aid and workplace safety perspective, big toe pain matters because
Big Toe Pain: First Aid Awareness, Mobility Risks, and Workplace Safety in Canada Read More »
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is often blamed on keyboard use, especially in office-based jobs. While many people with CTS associate their symptoms with typing, research has not clearly proven that keyboard use causes carpal tunnel syndrome. What is clear is that certain activities and wrist positions can worsen symptoms or make an existing condition more
