problems, interesting cases, or unusual health facts

  Grip strength plays an important role across various activities and populations throughout the lifespan (2–9). As an older adult, it can even be used as an indicator of mortality.   An interesting study from 2010 looked to isolate different components of what make up the strength of ones grip (1). Specifically, the median and ulnar nerve contributions. This is an important impairment to consider when looking into rehab of various hand and elbow injuries. In the context of this video, we are considering the ulnar nerve contribution to grip. Injuries to the ulnar nerve tend to happen at either the cubital tunnel of the elbow or guyon’s canal of the wrist (10).   So, what did the 2010 study find? They found that when the 4th and 5th digit were not used during a hand dynamometer test, there was, on average, a 55% decrease in strength. Interestingly, it was the loss of the 5th finger which caused a greater reduction over the 4th; 33% and 21% respectively.  What does this mean for rehab? It is relevant to cue one to grip with their 4th and 5th digits when using various training apparatuses. This is straightforward in application and endurance based in prescription i.e. if the ulnar grip fails, then consider that the limiting factor, and stop that working set or activity. 

  A construction worker in his 40s begins to experience strange, unexplained symptoms that turn his life upside down. Is it stress? An infection? Something more sinister? Follow David's medical mystery, whose limited diet and financial struggles set the stage for a shocking medical discovery. This gripping story dives into the intersection of nutrition, health, and revealing how everyday choices can have unexpected consequences. 

  A pandemic spreads when a new contagious disease moves from one person → to many people → to communities → to countries → to the entire world, largely helped by human contact and travel.