Carving a pumpkin is a Halloween tradition unlike any other! Scooping out the slimy guts with your hands, carving a terrifying face or design on the side of the pumpkin, and roasting the seeds for later snacking are all practically required activities during this season. Sharp tools and a difficult-to-cut pumpkin can, however, result in painful cuts and dangerous injuries.
According to the ASSH (American Society for Surgery of the Hand), there is an increase in the frequency of nerve and tendon lacerations on hands and fingers around Halloween, which may necessitate surgical treatment and result in lifelong damage. "Stabbing wounds to the fingers and palm are the most common injuries related with pumpkin carving... The index finger is most commonly punctured, causing injury to tendons, nerves, and arteries "Stuart J. Elkowitz, M.D., of Somers Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Group in Carmel, New York, agreed.
- Use the right tools meant for carving pumpkins
- Sharper is not better
- Do decorative work on the outside of the pumpkin before removing the inside
- Be patient and take your time
- Don't burn yourself with the candle you add at the end
So enjoy creating your pumpkins and be careful! Happy Fall All.