Effective Self-Care Strategies for Shoulder Blade Pain Relief
Shoulder blade pain? Hello, Dr. Chen! I have been experiencing pain in my left scapula for a long time, and it has previously been so severe that I couldn't move my left arm down to the elbow. After undergoing rehabilitation, it improved, but recently, after performing some ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be due to cervical nerve compression (the left scapula corresponds to the fifth and sixth cervical segments; the left arm to the elbow joint corresponds to the seventh cervical and first thoracic nerve root compression). In addition to electrical therapy, cervical tract...[Read More] Effective Self-Care Strategies for Shoulder Blade Pain Relief
Understanding and Managing Right Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions
Right knee pain? Hello Director Chen: My right knee always hurts on the outer side when I try to stand up after sitting or squatting for a few minutes. It feels like the muscles or tendons are tight and not fully extending, and I can't walk immediately. What should I do abou...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It is possible that a previous injury to the ligament (lateral collateral ligament of the knee) has not fully healed. You may consider visiting a rehabilitation department for thermal therapy (ultrasound or shortwave) and electrical stimulation therapy. 2. Regularly performing...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Right Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions
Should You Wear Knee Braces During Rehab for ACL Injuries?
Knee braces, muscles, and muscle strength? Hello Dr. Chen: I previously purchased two knee braces. My condition is that I have undergone reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament and the lateral collateral ligament in my right knee, and the surgery is complete. I am now p...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Generally, protective gear should be removed during exercise unless in the acute phase. During the acute phase, "isometric" exercises can be performed. 2. For a more conservative approach, it is advisable to work with a therapist and use "isokinetic" exerci...[Read More] Should You Wear Knee Braces During Rehab for ACL Injuries?
Understanding Occasional Sounds in the Back of the Head: Should You Worry?
Issues with the occipital region? Hello, Doctor: My blood pressure is normal, and I have always been healthy. However, in the past six months, I occasionally hear a clear "pop" sound in the back of my head when I look up or stand up, and sometimes it feels a bit startli...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. The sound may be from tendons or ligaments and is not necessarily a precursor to a stroke. 2. Strokes often do not have clear warning signs; it is important to monitor blood pressure, blood lipids, and cholesterol levels. Sudden loss of vision is a significant warning sign of ...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Sounds in the Back of the Head: Should You Worry?
How to Alleviate Foot Cramps Near the Big Toe and Ankle
Foot cramps Hello, Director Chen! Recently, I've been experiencing cramps near the big toe of my left foot, sometimes close to the ankle. This often occurs when I step on the ground, and it usually takes about 500 meters of walking before it gradually feels better. What can ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It is possible that there has been a previous sports injury or slight tendon shortening due to aging. 2. Standing on an inclined board can help stretch the hamstrings or perform other joint movements for warm-up. 3. Gradually increase strength training for the ankle and calf m...[Read More] How to Alleviate Foot Cramps Near the Big Toe and Ankle
Can Physical Therapy Heal Your Ankle Ligament Injury?
Ligament injury Hello Dr. Chen: After falling on the floor, my ankle ligaments have frequently been problematic for the past six months, especially when walking, which is very bothersome! Can rehabilitation help me recover? Thank you! Wang Tian
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. In rehabilitation, start with deep heat therapy to improve circulation. 2. Begin with stretching and joint mobility exercises. 3. Then proceed to isokinetic strength training, gradually increasing the loading. 4. Practice figure-eight running to train joint torque and prevent ...[Read More] Can Physical Therapy Heal Your Ankle Ligament Injury?
Effective Rehabilitation Treatments for Back Pain Beyond Waist Support
About waist circumference? Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing lower back pain, and my physician advised me to wear a lumbar support belt. It felt comfortable at first, but after less than two hours, I developed a skin allergy on my lower back, which is quite frustrating. Are...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Wearing a cotton garment underneath the waist support can help prevent irritation. 2. Consider purchasing softer and more comfortable waist supports from abroad, which offer better angles and quality materials. 3. For skin allergies, wash with clean water (warm water) without ...[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Treatments for Back Pain Beyond Waist Support
Relieving Leg Pain: Tips for Those Who Stand All Day
Leg pain? Hello Dr. Chen: I have to stand for 8 hours every day at work, and for the past year, I have been unable to stand for long periods. After more than 3 hours, my legs become extremely sore, especially the outer sides of my calves, which feel hard and swollen. I don't...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be due to muscle overuse, potentially leading to a herniated lumbar disc that compresses the sciatic nerve. 2. When working, try to lean against a high chair and perform calf stretching exercises as needed. 3. Additionally, consider visiting a rehabilitation department ...[Read More] Relieving Leg Pain: Tips for Those Who Stand All Day
Do I Need Rehabilitation for a Finger Injury from a Car Door?
Finger crush injury Hello, Director Chen! This afternoon on February 4th, my right index finger got caught in a car door. The bone seems to be fine, but there is severe bruising from the nail to the joint. Do I need to undergo rehabilitation? Will there be any long-term effects? ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Apply ice packs during the acute phase. 2. In the subacute phase, alternating hot and cold baths can be performed (hot water at approximately 40 degrees Celsius and cold water at about 10-12 degrees Celsius; immerse in hot water for 5 minutes, then in cold water for 1 minute, ...[Read More] Do I Need Rehabilitation for a Finger Injury from a Car Door?
Applying for Disability Certification and Foreign Caregiver Assistance
Disability application Hello Director Chen! My nephew developed a high fever on July 1st last year, and the hospital diagnosed him with acute encephalitis. He has been in a coma ever since. Can we apply for the disability certificate mentioned in #27531? Is it possible to apply f...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. A disability certificate requires that the individual has undergone rehabilitation or treatment for "more than six months" and still has a residual disability status. You can obtain the application form at the village office and submit it for evaluation at the rehabi...[Read More] Applying for Disability Certification and Foreign Caregiver Assistance
Effective Solutions for Sudden Left Lower Back Pain
Left flank pain? Hello, Dr. Chen! I suddenly experienced pain in my left lower back while standing, and it still hurts when I sit down or lie down. I tried applying heat and using a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, but the relief lasts only about 30 minutes before th...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be due to lumbar disc herniation and overuse of the lumbar muscles. 2. You can visit the rehabilitation department for heat therapy and lumbar traction, and obtain educational pamphlets to learn how to perform exercises and stretches for the lumbar and back muscles. 3. ...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Sudden Left Lower Back Pain
Why Does My Left Hand Feel Numb? Understanding Hand Numbness and Rehab
Numbness in the hands? Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask you, when using both hands, my right hand exerts more effort than my left hand, especially with household chores. Why is it that my left hand often feels numb? Sometimes only my palm is numb, and other times the numbness ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
(1) It may be due to nerve root compression or cauda equina syndrome. (2) Prolonged pressure may lead to muscle atrophy, so early rehabilitation is essential. (3) Rehabilitation should include physical therapy and ultrasound treatment; if there is still no improvement, surgical i...[Read More] Why Does My Left Hand Feel Numb? Understanding Hand Numbness and Rehab
Understanding Lymphatic Obstruction: Causes and Treatment Options
Lymphatic obstruction? Hello Director Chen! My thigh is swollen down to my calf, and the muscles always feel tight and very sore to the touch. Could this be due to lymphatic congestion? Is it treatable? Thank you, Lily.
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
(1) Poor circulation; the lymphatic system has valves to help push lymph fluid back, but its function declines with age. (2) You can visit a rehabilitation department for deep heat therapy and circulatory compression lymphatic treatment to enhance circulation. (3) You can perform...[Read More] Understanding Lymphatic Obstruction: Causes and Treatment Options
Facial Spasms: Can Rehabilitation Help After Failed Treatments?
Facial spasms Director Chen: Three weeks ago, the patient experienced facial spasms several times a day. Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture have not been effective. Is it possible to proceed with rehabilitation?
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
(1) Facial twitching should first be evaluated by a rehabilitation specialist with an electromyography (EMG) test at a regional hospital to determine if it is due to a central or peripheral nerve disorder. (2) If it is a peripheral nerve disorder, the physician may administer bot...[Read More] Facial Spasms: Can Rehabilitation Help After Failed Treatments?
Persistent Inner Thigh Pain: Exploring Treatment Options Beyond Traditional Methods
Numbness and pain in the inner thigh? If you have been experiencing numbness and pain on the inner thigh for over six months despite treatment from both Western and traditional Chinese medicine, it may indicate an underlying issue that has not been addressed. Possible causes coul...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. An electromyography (EMG) of the lower extremities and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine should be performed first to determine if there are any lesions, including intervertebral disc herniation, sciatica, or spinal tumors. 2. If there is frequent hiking o...[Read More] Persistent Inner Thigh Pain: Exploring Treatment Options Beyond Traditional Methods
Stroke Rehabilitation for Bedridden Patients: Options and Air Mattress Benefits
Stroke bed rest My grandfather has been bedridden for five years after a stroke. How can he undergo rehabilitation? Is it possible to apply for an air mattress?
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. You can obtain educational pamphlets from the rehabilitation department, which provide guidance on various rehabilitation exercises, especially positioning and joint mobility. 2. Patients who are bedridden for an extended period should be frequently repositioned and have the...[Read More] Stroke Rehabilitation for Bedridden Patients: Options and Air Mattress Benefits
Can Physical Therapy Help with Leg Length Discrepancy Issues?
Leg length discrepancy Hello Dr. Chen: My uncle has a leg length discrepancy, which has become more severe. He walks with his body leaning to one side. Can rehabilitation therapy help? Does he need surgery?
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Actual measurement of leg length is required to determine if there is true leg length discrepancy or if it is caused by scoliosis. 2. If the scoliosis is less than 20 degrees, rehabilitation is recommended. If it is between 20 and 40 degrees, a Milwaukee brace along with reha...[Read More] Can Physical Therapy Help with Leg Length Discrepancy Issues?
To Surgery or Not: Managing Lumbar Spondylolisthesis in Rehab
Is surgery necessary? Hello Director Chen: My father often lifts heavy objects and currently experiences frequent lower back pain that radiates to his right thigh. The doctor diagnosed him with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Some doctors suggest surgery, while others recommend physica...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. In cases of lumbar spondylolisthesis classified as Grade I (with slippage less than one-quarter), if there are no accompanying symptoms, rehabilitation is recommended. However, if the slippage is Grade II or higher and there are the following symptoms, surgical fixation is nec...[Read More] To Surgery or Not: Managing Lumbar Spondylolisthesis in Rehab
Understanding Cervical Spondylosis: Treatment Options for Vertebral Artery Type
Cervical spondylosis Doctor, it seems that cervical spine disorders have many types, and among them, the vertebral artery type is treated differently in rehabilitation medicine. Given my age, it might be caused by a small facet joint dislocation due to a history of trauma, right?...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. You can be referred to our Rehabilitation Department for an MRI. 2. X-rays of the facet joints should be able to reveal the condition. 3. For cervical spine disorders, the same treatment includes heat therapy and electrical stimulation. Whether traction and manual therapy ...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spondylosis: Treatment Options for Vertebral Artery Type
Managing Medial Tendonitis: Rehabilitation Strategies for Hikers
Medial tendonitis of the knee Hello Director Chen! I have been hiking for over 20 years, and recently I've been experiencing difficulty going downhill. When descending, the muscles on the inner thigh must contract to help control the downward momentum, which often leads to m...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. This is an inflammation of the palmaris longus tendon, which can be treated with heat therapy during the chronic phase. 2. Refer to the rehabilitation department for ultrasound, shortwave therapy, and electrical stimulation.[Read More] Managing Medial Tendonitis: Rehabilitation Strategies for Hikers