Complex Orthopedic Symptoms: Seeking Expert Advice for Relief

Q: Complex Orthopedic Symptoms: Seeking Expert Advice for Relief

Hello： 1. <br>Local bone spurs in the spine do not necessarily cause pain in that area. <br>Surgery should only be considered if there is nerve compression and symptoms cannot be alleviated by medication or rehabilitation. <br>Nerve compression often leads to issues such as limb

Complex symptoms, could you please take the time to respond, doctor? Thank you?

Hello Doctor, I have been troubled by many issues for a long time, and I appreciate your taking the time to respond.
Thank you.
1.
I previously had an X-ray that indicated a bone spur at the C5 vertebra.
Could this cause pain in my neck or elsewhere? Under what circumstances should surgery be considered? When I palpate my cervical spine down to my lumbar region, there are several areas that are painful, and I can't distinguish whether the pain is from muscle, nerve, or bone.
What kind of examinations or approaches should I pursue in this case?
2.
After overexerting my right shoulder and doing some heavy labor, I noticed a clicking sound when I swing my shoulder while running.
Several doctors have examined me but have not reached a consensus; some mentioned ligament laxity, others suggested a rotator cuff strain, and some said it could be a bone and muscle nerve impingement.
What should I do about this? After working in a factory for a few months, I found that a large area of my right shoulder hurts when I wake up in the morning.
3.
Recently, I have been experiencing some insomnia because my legs feel uncomfortable.
When I bend over or perform certain movements, I can feel noticeable movement and clicking near my hip bones.
A doctor at Lin Sen Hospital mentioned this could be related to "frog legs" and muscle fibrosis.
Could my leg discomfort and knee pain be related to this? If so, is surgery the only solution? The doctor mentioned that surgery would relax the muscles and is considered a minor procedure.
Besides surgery, are there other self-care methods I can adopt?
I apologize for the numerous questions, but I have been troubled for a long time.
I have heard that you are a compassionate and skilled doctor, so I am seeking your assistance.
Thank you.

Awei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/23

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello: 1.
Local bone spurs in the spine do not necessarily cause pain in that area.
Surgery should only be considered if there is nerve compression and symptoms cannot be alleviated by medication or rehabilitation.
Nerve compression often leads to issues such as limb numbness and pain.
2.
If the joint capsule has been lax for many years, significant injuries such as dislocations are more likely to lead to tendon inflammation.
Please visit an orthopedic clinic for examination.
3.
Pain from frog leg position or muscle fibrosis, which has persisted for many years, is typically located on the outer thigh near the hip, and there may be difficulties with squatting.
If symptoms appear in your 30s, consider rehabilitation and medication treatment first, rather than proceeding directly to surgery.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2018/08/23

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your complex orthopedic symptoms. It’s understandable that you are feeling overwhelmed given the variety of issues you are experiencing. Let’s break down your concerns one by one.

1. Cervical Spine Issues: You mentioned having a bone spur at the C5 vertebra. Bone spurs can indeed lead to neck pain and may also cause radiating pain into the shoulders, arms, or even headaches if they impinge on nearby nerves. Symptoms can vary widely; some individuals experience stiffness, tingling, or numbness in the extremities. Surgical intervention is typically considered if conservative treatments (like physical therapy, medications, or injections) fail to alleviate symptoms or if there is significant nerve compression leading to weakness or loss of function. A detailed evaluation, including MRI imaging, can help determine the extent of nerve involvement and guide treatment decisions.

2. Shoulder Pain: The popping sound in your shoulder during movement, especially after increased activity, could indicate several issues, including rotator cuff injuries, shoulder impingement, or even labral tears. The fact that you have pain and a history of overuse suggests that you might be dealing with a soft tissue injury. An MRI or ultrasound of the shoulder can provide a clearer picture of the soft tissues and help identify any tears or inflammation. In the meantime, rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain. Physical therapy focusing on strengthening and stabilizing the shoulder may also be beneficial.

3. Leg Discomfort and Hip Issues: The sensation of discomfort in your legs and the feeling of movement in your hip area could be related to several factors, including muscle tightness, joint issues, or even nerve compression. The term "frog leg" may refer to a specific position or movement pattern that could be causing strain. If your knees are also experiencing pain, it could be related to the mechanics of your hip and how they interact during movement. While surgery can sometimes be necessary, many conditions can be managed with physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Consulting with a physical therapist could provide you with tailored exercises to improve your condition without the need for surgery.

In summary, while surgery is sometimes necessary, many orthopedic issues can be effectively managed through conservative measures. It’s crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist who can assess your symptoms in detail and recommend a personalized treatment plan. This may include imaging studies, physical therapy, and possibly injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

Please remember to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms. I encourage you to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about the recommendations you have received so far. Your health and well-being are paramount, and finding the right approach to manage your symptoms is essential.

Wishing you the best in your journey toward relief and recovery.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

[Your Institution/Practice]

Similar Q&A

Understanding Complex Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?

Problem Description: My mother is in her fifties and has recently been experiencing frequent discomfort and pain. Her symptoms are somewhat complex, and we are unsure which part of her body may be problematic. We would like to inquire about which specialty she should consult befo...

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
It is recommended to first visit a family medicine physician for evaluation and assessment, and then determine the subsequent treatment plan based on the physician's advice.

Chronic Back Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist?

Hello Doctor: I have a question. My mother has been experiencing chronic back pain for many years, which has worsened this year. She feels pain and numbness even when cooking or washing dishes, making it difficult for her to stand for long periods. She has had X-rays done, which ...

Dr. Huang Longde reply Orthopedics
Hello Ms. Lin: Your mother's age is likely over sixty, which is when spinal joint degeneration, bone spurs, and disc atrophy typically begin to occur. Therefore, prolonged standing while washing dishes or working may lead to soreness and even neurological symptoms such as le...

Is My Knee Issue Just the Tip of the Iceberg for My Orthopedic Problems?

Hello Dr. Hong! Thank you for your response. In addition to my knee issues, I actually have other musculoskeletal problems that I would like to consult you about. Besides the knee symptoms, I have an outward rotation of my elbows (which has been present since birth), a coccyx tha...

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Thank you for your letter again. Your concerns regarding the cubitus valgus, sacral tilt, and hallux valgus appear to be congenital. While they are not major issues, they can sometimes be quite bothersome. Generally, if you experience discomfort or symptoms, it is advisable to co...

Understanding Knee and Hip Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my grandmother (79 years old). For the past few weeks, she has been experiencing pain in both legs from the knees to the pelvis. She has not had any falls, and although she has tried acupuncture, it has not helped. She has also undergone X-...

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics
Hello Aping, X-rays cannot determine if there is nerve compression. If the pain persists despite conservative treatment, an MRI should be performed to check for nerve compression. You can consult either an orthopedic specialist or a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery.