A recent analysis has uncovered the top five injuries that Maryland residents are most frequently searching for on Google.
The research, conducted by the specialists at Phoenix-based injury law firm hutzlerlaw.com, utilized Google search data to identify the most commonly queried personal injuries and conditions in Maryland. This involved examining a list of 102 injuries nationwide to pinpoint the most searched for in the state.
Shin Splints
Topping the list in Maryland are shin splints, with an average of 4,642 searches per month. Shin splints typically present as pain or tenderness along the inner shinbone, accompanied by mild swelling in the lower leg. This condition often arises from physical activities like running.
Bursitis
Following closely is bursitis, averaging 4,200 monthly searches. Bursitis can lead to joint pain and swelling, frequently caused by jobs that involve prolonged joint pressure or repetitive movements.
Notably, the highest search rates for bursitis per 100,000 population are found in Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, North Carolina, and Vermont.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Third on the list is carpal tunnel syndrome, with approximately 3,933 searches per month in Maryland. This condition, characterized by pain and numbness in the hand and fingers, results from pressure on a nerve in the wrist. The National Library of Medicine reports that carpal tunnel surgery is the most common wrist and hand surgery in the U.S., with over 400,000 procedures annually and costs exceeding $2 billion.
Nasal Septum Deviation
Nasal septum deviation ranks fourth, with 3,250 monthly searches. The primary symptom is difficulty breathing through the nose due to a displaced, crooked septum. This condition can be congenital or result from injuries such as those sustained in contact sports, car accidents, physical altercations, or falls.
Concussion
Rounding out the top five is the concussion, with an average of 2,567 monthly searches. Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries typically caused by a blow to the head. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that falls, firearm-related incidents, vehicle crashes, and assaults are common causes, with falls leading to nearly half of all concussion-related hospitalizations.
The overall top five most searched injuries in the U.S. are:
Shin splints
Bursitis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Nasal septum deviation
Concussion
A representative from hutzlerlaw.com commented: "This study sheds light on the prevalent injuries and concerns of people in the U.S. Sharing this information helps raise awareness about injury prevention and management. The data reflects national trends, such as bursitis being the most searched injury in 33 states. Remember, injuries can happen anytime, anywhere, including at work, so being prepared for emergencies is crucial."
Most Searched Injuries in the U.S.
Shin Splints | 215,833.33
Bursitis | 208,500
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | 198,000
Nasal Septum Deviation | 177,500
Concussion | 126,666.66
(Source: Google Keyword Planner for each U.S. state)
Methodology
Data from Google Keyword Planner was compiled for a list of 102 injuries in each state over the past 12 months. The average monthly search volume was then used to rank each injury. Certain injuries were excluded due to ambiguity or difficulties in