Can Lumbar Traction Help Relieve Sciatica from Herniated Discs?
Lumbar traction Hello, Director Chen! Is lumbar traction effective for improving sciatica caused by a herniated disc? If so, how long should lumbar traction be performed to see results? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Herniated disc can be treated with lumbar traction (except in cases of osteoporosis, pregnancy, or cancer), with approximately eighty percent showing improvement. 2. Start with a weight of one-quarter of the body weight, gradually increasing to one-half (or slightly more), dep...[Read More] Can Lumbar Traction Help Relieve Sciatica from Herniated Discs?
Can Rehabilitation Help Relieve Arm Pain and Stiffness?
Arm pain Hello, Director. For the past two weeks, I have been doing too much physical housework, which has resulted in significant soreness in my arms, especially my left arm, which often experiences mild spasms. Additionally, I have stiffness in my neck. Can rehabilitation thera...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Bilateral arm soreness may be due to muscle overuse or cervical radiculopathy. 2. You can visit a rehabilitation department for heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and cervical traction, and consider using analgesics and muscle relaxants. 3. If these treatments are ineffec...[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help Relieve Arm Pain and Stiffness?
Orthopedics vs. Rehabilitation: Which Specialist Should You See?
As last time? So which department should I see, orthopedics or rehabilitation? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
First, see the rehabilitation department for an examination.[Read More] Orthopedics vs. Rehabilitation: Which Specialist Should You See?
Managing Left Arm Pain: Insights from Rehabilitation Experts
Left arm pain? Hello Director Chen: The pain in my left scapula disappeared after one day, and then I experienced soreness and weakness in my left arm. Touching the outer muscles causes both pain and soreness, making it difficult to work and sleep. My arm feels almost paralyzed, ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
(1) The soreness in the scapula and left arm may have two possible causes: first, muscle overuse; second, a herniated cervical disc compressing the cervical nerves. (2) Initially, apply topical ointments and heat therapy. After a thorough examination in the rehabilitation departm...[Read More] Managing Left Arm Pain: Insights from Rehabilitation Experts
Understanding Post-Injury Pain: When to See an Orthopedist or Rehab Specialist
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate? I would like to ask, I was injured in a car accident before, but X-rays showed no issues. However, since then, I occasionally experience brief sharp pains, and sometimes when I stand up, my thigh feels weak and ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Possible lumbar nerve root compression. 2. X-rays of the lumbar spine and nerve conduction studies should be performed first. If compression is confirmed, consider rehabilitation for moderate cases; for severe compression, surgical intervention is indicated.[Read More] Understanding Post-Injury Pain: When to See an Orthopedist or Rehab Specialist
Managing Muscle Atrophy During Humerus Fracture Recovery
Humeral fracture Hello Director Chen: I have a humeral fracture in my right arm due to a car accident, located near the shoulder. Because there is still an open wound, the doctor can only use a sling for stabilization and cannot apply a cast. During the healing process, will ther...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. You can undergo laser therapy and electrical muscle stimulation in the rehabilitation department to accelerate healing and prevent atrophy. 2. Ultrasound therapy can increase tendon extensibility and prevent stiffness, while "active range of motion exercises" are ben...[Read More] Managing Muscle Atrophy During Humerus Fracture Recovery
Understanding Spinal Cord Injury: Managing Bladder Control Issues
Spinal cord injury Hello Dr. Chen: A family member was in a car accident and sustained a spinal cord injury, resulting in an inability to control the contraction of the bladder muscles, leading to urinary incontinence. Could this indicate damage to the nerves related to urination...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. The spinal cord nerves at the second to fourth sacral segments are responsible for bladder function, anatomically located at the level of the first to second lumbar vertebrae. 2. Patients can receive bladder training and intermittent catheterization training at a medical cent...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Cord Injury: Managing Bladder Control Issues
Flat Feet in Toddlers: Rehabilitation and Custom Insole Solutions
Flatfoot in children Hello Director Chen! I have a 3-year-old child with flat feet who dislikes walking. Is rehabilitation an option? Should we consider custom orthotics for her? Thank you! Tina
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. If a child is still flat-footed at three years old, rehabilitation treatment is necessary. 2. You can go to the assistive device center in your area to order "arch supports," and then check if the hip joints are too tight and if the leg muscle strength is normal, fo...[Read More] Flat Feet in Toddlers: Rehabilitation and Custom Insole Solutions
Managing Wrist Tendonitis: Effective Rehab Strategies for Quick Recovery
Wrist tendonitis Hello, Director! I cannot be away from the computer for even a second at work, which has resulted in severe pain in the thumb area of my right wrist. An orthopedic diagnosis indicated tendonitis, and I was prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and ointment, alo...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be "De Quervain's tenosynovitis," which involves inflammation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons at the wrist. 2. During the acute phase, apply ice therapy. 3. After the acute phase, you can visit a rehabilitation dep...[Read More] Managing Wrist Tendonitis: Effective Rehab Strategies for Quick Recovery
Understanding Muscle Strains: Symptoms, Causes, and Rehab Options
Where is the strain? Hello Director Chen! Recently, when lifting objects, even something as light as a bucket of water or a backpack, I feel a sense of weakness at certain angles, and my muscles feel immediately fatigued. A slight touch causes significant pain, which is localized...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be a tendon strain, and pulling or exerting force may cause pain. 2. Avoid lifting heavy objects for the time being, and consider visiting a rehabilitation department for deep heat therapy such as shortwave, ultrasound, or laser treatments.[Read More] Understanding Muscle Strains: Symptoms, Causes, and Rehab Options
Are Park Exercise Equipment Safe for Spinal Rehabilitation?
Exercise equipment? Hello, Dr. Chen! It is common to see fixed tires in parks. Many people consider them to be the best equipment for supporting the body and correcting or maintaining spinal health, and they are eager to try them out! However, they are hesitant to proceed without...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Lying on a tire allows for stretching of the back muscles, but it does not provide specific benefits for the spine. 2. It is better to visit a rehabilitation department to obtain educational pamphlets or consult a rehabilitation physician on how to perform exercises for the ...[Read More] Are Park Exercise Equipment Safe for Spinal Rehabilitation?
Pre-Surgery Exercise: Is It Safe Before Hip Replacement?
Preoperative Exercise Hello, Dr. Chen: I am scheduled to undergo hip replacement surgery in two weeks. Some doctors believe that exercising before the surgery is not advisable, while others think swimming is acceptable since water exercises place less strain on the joints. Could ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Swimming or non-weight-bearing exercises can be performed. 2. After surgery, a consultation with an orthopedic physician and a rehabilitation specialist can be requested three days post-operation to initiate phototherapy (laser treatment) and isometric exercises. Avoid allowin...[Read More] Pre-Surgery Exercise: Is It Safe Before Hip Replacement?
Understanding Left Neck and Shoulder Blade Pain: Causes and Treatments
Pain in the left side of the neck and scapula? Hello Director Chen: Recently, I have been experiencing soreness and pain around the left side of my neck and left scapula. Sometimes when I wake up, my left arm feels numb. A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner suggested that ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. A CT scan or MRI can be performed to assess the condition. 2. Generally, treatments such as thermotherapy, electrical stimulation, and neck strength training can be utilized. 3. If necessary, cervical traction may be performed.[Read More] Understanding Left Neck and Shoulder Blade Pain: Causes and Treatments
Rehabilitation for Calf Muscle Atrophy After Cast Removal
Rehabilitation for Calf Muscle Atrophy Hello Dr. Chen! After a prolonged period of having a cast on my lower leg, I noticed muscle atrophy due to lack of movement once the cast was removed. I feel weakness when standing and walking. How long does rehabilitation therapy typically ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. You can undergo electrical muscle stimulation in the rehabilitation department to prevent further atrophy. 2. Hydrotherapy or shortwave therapy can enhance circulation and flexibility. 3. Strength training is the most important, and it generally takes about 2-3 months to c...[Read More] Rehabilitation for Calf Muscle Atrophy After Cast Removal
Neck Injury from Chiropractic Treatment: Rehabilitation and Diagnosis Options
excuse me? Hello doctor, I injured my neck during a chiropractic adjustment. I was lying down when my neck was pulled, and the force was quite strong. It has been three months, and my neck still hasn't healed. Initially, the most painful area was the muscles on one side of m...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. A visit to a major hospital is required for an electromyography (EMG) examination. 2. This examination can determine whether there is cervical nerve root compression and assess its severity. If the condition is more severe, surgical intervention may be considered. Generally, c...[Read More] Neck Injury from Chiropractic Treatment: Rehabilitation and Diagnosis Options
Rehabilitation Options for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tear? Hello Doctor: I have a torn posterior cruciate ligament. The swelling has subsided, but I still have difficulty lifting my foot. Can surgery to reconstruct the posterior cruciate ligament really restore ligament stability? Or would rehabili...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Young patients with a torn posterior cruciate ligament should consider surgical treatment followed by rehabilitation. 2. It is advisable to first go to a medical center for isokinetic testing and training to prevent injuries and ensure high accuracy. 3. After surgery, a br...[Read More] Rehabilitation Options for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Do You Need Surgery for a Fibula Fracture Near the Ankle?
Fracture of the fibula? Hello, Director Chen! Does a fracture of the small bone in the lower leg near the ankle require surgery? Or is a cast necessary? Can an ankle brace suffice? Is rehabilitation needed? What can be done to walk normally in a short period of time? Thank you fo...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. Fibula fractures typically require little surgical intervention, as they only account for 10-15% of the load-bearing capacity. Casting or splinting is usually sufficient. 2. Engaging in rehabilitation can help alleviate pain more quickly, improve circulation, and enhance mus...[Read More] Do You Need Surgery for a Fibula Fracture Near the Ankle?
Understanding Tennis Injuries: Recovery and Rehabilitation Insights
Tennis injuries Hello Doctor: I was playing tennis and may not have warmed up enough. After a few minutes, I started to feel a dull pain near the lower right rib area. I tried to continue playing, but even deep breathing became very painful. I'm unsure if it's a muscle ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be a strain of the pectoralis major or intercostal muscles. It is advisable not to force yourself to play and to rest for two to three weeks. 2. Rehabilitation may include phototherapy (infrared and laser) and taking analgesics or using topical anti-inflammatory ointm...[Read More] Understanding Tennis Injuries: Recovery and Rehabilitation Insights
Effective Recovery Strategies for Coccyx Injuries After a Fall
Coccygeal contusion Hello Doctor! I had a motorcycle accident that caused my coccyx to hit the asphalt. I have been experiencing a persistent tingling sensation around the coccyx area. I went to the hospital for an X-ray, and the doctor diagnosed it as a coccygeal contusion, reco...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. It may be a coccygeal contusion combined with a lumbar-sacral disc herniation, with the former causing coccygeal pain and the latter leading to numbness. 2. Massage is not recommended; rehabilitation with heat therapy, ultrasound, and laser treatment on the coccyx is advisable...[Read More] Effective Recovery Strategies for Coccyx Injuries After a Fall
Understanding Hip Joint Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Rehabilitation Insights
Hip joint pain Hello Director Chen! I have severe hip pain and often try self-massage, heat therapy, and topical ointments, but nothing seems to alleviate the pain. Could it be due to hip dislocation? Is there a possibility of leg length discrepancy? Can rehabilitation therapy he...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
1. The most common conditions are inflammation of the piriformis muscle or gluteus minimus, followed by hip joint inflammation or avascular necrosis (the most severe). 2. It is recommended to visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for an X-ray to rule out avascular necr...[Read More] Understanding Hip Joint Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Rehabilitation Insights