Is a Bump on the Neck Normal When Tilting Back?
Neck issues? Hello, doctor. When I tilt my head back, I can feel a protrusion at the back of my neck that feels like cartilage, and it only appears when I tilt my head back. Is this normal? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, you should be able to feel the posterior edge of the seventh cervical vertebra. However, please consult a physician for a proper diagnosis. Best wishes from neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Is a Bump on the Neck Normal When Tilting Back?
Choosing Between Traditional and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Sciatica
Surgical Issues Related to Sciatica Three months ago, I suddenly started experiencing pain at work, which requires lifting heavy objects. I went to Asia University Hospital for an MRI, and they told me that my fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae and the fifth lumbar vertebra are co...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Lumbar nerve compression is causing your sciatica, leading to pain and discomfort. If you are not satisfied with the pain relief from conservative treatment, it is indeed time to consider more aggressive treatment options. 1. Radiofrequency ablation: This can provide tem...[Read More] Choosing Between Traditional and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Sciatica
Understanding Neck Mobility After C3-C7 Fusion Surgery
Cervical spine range of motion I would like to ask: Generally speaking, after undergoing fusion of the cervical vertebrae C3, C4, C5, C6, and C7, what is the typical range of motion? I would like to know.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, I suggest you consult with the physician who will be performing your surgery.[Read More] Understanding Neck Mobility After C3-C7 Fusion Surgery
Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage and Anesthesia Effects on Consciousness
Intracranial hemorrhage A friend was involved in a car accident resulting in intracranial hemorrhage and a fracture of the left ankle. One week prior to hospitalization, the patient was conscious and able to engage in brief conversations, and could request assistance from the nur...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
In theory, general anesthesia does not exacerbate brain injury, but the information you provided is too brief for me to respond adequately.[Read More] Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage and Anesthesia Effects on Consciousness
Persistent Right Lower Body Pain: Could It Be a Nerve Issue?
Pain and numbness in the right lower extremity? I have been experiencing pain and numbness in my right lower body, from my waist to the sole of my foot, for the past seven months. The discomfort is particularly pronounced in the lower right back and hip area, which feels tight an...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It could be an issue with the sciatic nerve.[Read More] Persistent Right Lower Body Pain: Could It Be a Nerve Issue?
Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and Treatments for Nerve Issues
Hand issues? Hello, doctor. This morning when I woke up, I noticed that the tip of my right index finger has a tingling sensation whenever I touch it lightly. It's not very painful, but it feels like a sharp prick whenever it comes into contact with something. Could there be...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
You are repeating the question; I have already responded to it.[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and Treatments for Nerve Issues
Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and Solutions for Nerve Issues
Hand issues? Hello, doctor. This morning when I woke up, I noticed that the tip of my right index finger has a tingling sensation whenever I touch it lightly. It's not very painful, but it feels like a sharp prick whenever it is touched. Could there be an issue with my finge...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If there are no open wounds, redness, swelling, or pain, try applying a warm compress and observe for 3-5 days. If there is no improvement, consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgeon.[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and Solutions for Nerve Issues
Understanding Neck Pain During Rotational Movements: Causes and Solutions
Neck rotation causes pain? I would like to ask, when I tilt my head to the left or right, I don't feel any pain, but when I rotate my head, especially during physical education classes, I experience pain on the left side when turning to the back left. Additionally, I have no...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it is suspected to be a cervical spine issue, possibly related to your posture during activities. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for some examinations. Best wishes. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Changhua Hospital[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain During Rotational Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Lumbar Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Unexplained lumbar pain? Hello, doctor. Recently, my entire spine has been very stiff and painful, and I also experience a penetrating pain in both sides of my pelvis. Sometimes, due to abdominal pain, when I bend over to walk, I feel a painful sensation of bone rubbing against b...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon, especially one who specializes in spinal issues. 2. Best wishes to you. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine Neurosurgery Department at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Lumbar Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Hydrocephalus: To Operate or Not? Understanding Your Options
Surgical Intervention for Hydrocephalus: To Operate or Not? Due to my father's previous fall, he has developed a brain hemorrhage that has now led to hydrocephalus. The doctor mentioned that surgery is an option, but it's not urgent since the fluid accumulation is not s...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
A physician must not administer treatment, prescribe medication, or provide a diagnosis without personally examining the patient. If there are no obvious neurological abnormalities, it is recommended to observe the patient for a while longer.[Read More] Hydrocephalus: To Operate or Not? Understanding Your Options
Facial Nerve and Hearing Issues: Insights on Surgery and Recovery
Facial nerve and hearing issues? Hello Dr. Chang, I have been experiencing facial nerve twitching on my right side for nearly three years. I have continuously seen a neurosurgeon and have been taking Vitamin B and Rivotril 0.5mg for almost two years. The doctor believes it is not...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
I think this should be asked to the surgeon, as only they know whether any nerves were damaged during the procedure.[Read More] Facial Nerve and Hearing Issues: Insights on Surgery and Recovery
Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Head issues Two days ago, I fell and hit the back of my head while inhaling nitrous oxide at a friend's birthday party. The next day, I experienced dizziness, headache, fever, and sore throat. I went to a clinic for treatment and received medication, which alleviated the fev...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
First, rest, then observe.[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding L5-S1 Nerve Root Disorders: When to Seek Surgery
L5-S1 radiculopathy Hello, I am a patient with a herniated disc. At the end of 2014, I underwent an MRI and nerve conduction studies, which confirmed that my L4-L5 disc was herniated and compressing the nerve fibers. After surgery, my symptoms of leg numbness and weakness did not...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described: After enduring for more than two years... (the lower back pain only occurred in the first six months, and later gradually evolved into numbness and weakness in the legs) but the numbness makes it difficult to sit or stand, and the quality of sl...[Read More] Understanding L5-S1 Nerve Root Disorders: When to Seek Surgery
Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation and Nerve Root Compression
Is there a nerve root compression issue due to cervical intervertebral disc herniation? Hello Doctor: I currently have a problem with cervical disc herniation. After undergoing an MRI and follow-up consultation, it has been confirmed that I have a herniated disc. However, I still...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: According to what you mentioned, the report states... 1. Can the signal intensity of the cervical cord be determined solely from the MRI images? 2. Are there nerve roots within the dural sac? 3. If there is compression on the dural sac and it is a central herniation, can i...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation and Nerve Root Compression
Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury with a Swelling?
Pain and swelling after a head injury? Today, I accidentally stepped off the edge while going down from the third floor to the second floor and fell to the second floor. I have bruises and pain from abrasions on my body, and I hit my head against the wall, resulting in a swelling...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If there is no headache or dizziness, you may continue to monitor.[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury with a Swelling?
Severe Headaches and Nausea: Understanding Migraine Symptoms and Treatment
Severe headache accompanied by vomiting? Hello, Dr. Chang. About five years ago, I was slapped by my mother for making a mistake, and that night I went to the emergency room with severe headaches and nausea. It was the first time I experienced such intense pain. The doctor prescr...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Please visit the neurology outpatient clinic for an examination.[Read More] Severe Headaches and Nausea: Understanding Migraine Symptoms and Treatment
Best Follow-Up Imaging for Suspected Intracranial Aneurysm: MRI vs. CT
Examination of Intracranial Aneurysms Hello Doctor: The brain MRI (without contrast) from my health check-up shows a suspected 3mm internal carotid artery aneurysm. After one year, which follow-up examination is the better option, MRI or CT scan? Should the examination include co...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
MRI with contrast agent[Read More] Best Follow-Up Imaging for Suspected Intracranial Aneurysm: MRI vs. CT
Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis: Can They Coexist?
Herniated disc. Ankylosing spondylitis? I injured myself in the first year of junior high school, and since then, I have experienced lower back pain for about seven years. Later, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc, which is pressing on a nerve. Can the nerve become damaged? Ad...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, based on what you mentioned: 1. "If a herniated disc compresses a nerve, will the nerve die?" Answer: It depends on the location and severity of the nerve compression. If the compression is severe or prolonged, it may lead to nerve damage. It is advisable to obta...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis: Can They Coexist?
How to Diagnose Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: A Patient's Guide
How is autonomic nervous system dysfunction diagnosed? - Follow-up question? On Friday, I suddenly felt a painful cramping sensation in my heart, which extended slightly to the inner side of my arm and lasted for five minutes. I was scared I was having a myocardial infarction, so...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Currently, there are no definitive medical tests that can confirm autonomic nervous system dysfunction. To make this diagnosis, it is typically necessary to rule out other conditions through various tests, leading to the conclusion of "autonomic nervous system dysf...[Read More] How to Diagnose Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms
Back problems Experiencing itching, burning, and stabbing pain in the back, along with occasional全身刺痛 (generalized tingling or pain) that occurs every couple of days, and requiring a fan for relief, may indicate an underlying issue. It could be related to conditions such as neuro...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to first consult a dermatologist. If there is no resolution, then see a neurologist. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention for Symptoms