Managing Cervical Spondylosis: Effective Rehabilitation Strategies Beyond Traction
Ankylosing Spondylitis Yesterday, I went for a health check-up at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. I have severe cervical spondylosis with radiculopathies and spur formation at C4-5, C5-6, and C6-7. The spacing between the cervical vertebrae C4-5, C5-6, and C6-7 has decreased, and b...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. You likely have cervical spondylosis rather than ankylosing spondylitis (which is an autoimmune disease). 2. Pay attention to your posture and engage in isometric exercises for the neck. 3. Cer...[Read More] Managing Cervical Spondylosis: Effective Rehabilitation Strategies Beyond Traction
Understanding Shin Pain: Effective Home Remedies and When to Seek Help
Tibial bone pain Hello, doctor! My mom experienced pain in the arch of her left foot after walking home yesterday morning. The pain extends to her tibia, and the affected area is red and swollen, causing her to limp while walking. She applied ice and then used a medicated patch. ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. Your mother may be experiencing inflammation of the tibialis anterior muscle or inflammation of the ligaments between the metatarsals. Applying ice and using medicated patches is appropriate. 2. If...[Read More] Understanding Shin Pain: Effective Home Remedies and When to Seek Help
Understanding Knee Issues: Rehabilitation Options for Pain Relief
Knee problems Hello, Doctor! I have a problem with my left knee. For the past few days, I've been hearing a distinct "pop" sound when I stand up or straighten my leg, followed by pain that makes it difficult to walk. Additionally, when I squat and then stand up, I ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. You may have a knee ligament sprain, so it is important to rest and avoid intense physical activity. 2. You can apply heat therapy at home and wear a knee brace if necessary. 3. It is advisable...[Read More] Understanding Knee Issues: Rehabilitation Options for Pain Relief
Can Rehabilitation Help with Swallowing Difficulties After Cancer Treatment?
Dysphagia My uncle is 57 years old and has undergone radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal cancer. He is currently experiencing throat stiffness and difficulty swallowing. Would rehabilitation be beneficial for him?
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Radiation therapy can lead to fibrosis approximately one year after treatment, which may affect swallowing; in some cases, a gastrostomy may be necessary. ...[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help with Swallowing Difficulties After Cancer Treatment?
Preventing Habitual Ankle Sprains: Tips for Recovery and Protection
Ankle sprain Hello, doctor! I sprained my left ankle a week ago, and after going out for a walk, I sprained it again, which has been very frustrating for me. I'm becoming hesitant to step lightly. Can repeated sprains become habitual? How should I protect it? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. At home, perform more heat therapy and ankle joint stretching and strengthening exercises. You can use a balance ball or resistance bands for these exercises. 2. When going out, consider wearing a knee...[Read More] Preventing Habitual Ankle Sprains: Tips for Recovery and Protection
Understanding Shoulder Issues: Causes and Rehabilitation Tips
Shoulder problems? I have recently noticed an issue with my right shoulder. I feel weak when trying to lift objects, and when I shoot a basketball, I can't seem to make it into the hoop, even from a distance. I also struggle to play badminton effectively. What could be the p...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. There are two possible conditions that may be occurring simultaneously: one is inflammation of the rotator cuff in the right shoulder, and the other is a herniated cervical disc (between the fifth a...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Issues: Causes and Rehabilitation Tips
Managing Shoulder Pain from Cartilage Protrusion: Tips for Care
Herniated disc Dear Doctor: My mother often experiences soreness in her right scapula. The traditional Chinese medicine practitioner told her that she has a herniated cartilage. After receiving chiropractic treatment, she felt very comfortable; however, it seems that the conditio...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Please encourage your mother to perform heat therapy and engage in flexibility and strength training for her back. 2. She can lie against a door frame and p...[Read More] Managing Shoulder Pain from Cartilage Protrusion: Tips for Care
Understanding Chest Pain and Throat Discomfort: A Guide to Rehabilitation Care
Examination Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you a question. A few days ago, I experienced severe pain in my left chest and went to the emergency department at Mackay Memorial Hospital in Hsinchu. Due to my hypertension, I had blood tests and an electrocardiogram, but no cause...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestion: I recommend that you first consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist). Large hospitals have more specialized departments, and there are doctors who focus speci...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Throat Discomfort: A Guide to Rehabilitation Care
Understanding Knee Pain: Common Causes and Rehabilitation Insights
Knee Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you a question. Sometimes my knee hurts. What could be the reason for this? I haven't had any injuries, yet it still hurts at times.
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. There are many causes of knee pain, including inflammation of the patellar tendon (Patellar tendinitis), inflammation of the medial and lateral collateral ligam...[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: Common Causes and Rehabilitation Insights
Understanding Unexplained Calf Pain in Adolescents: Causes and Solutions
Abnormal soreness in the calf? Hello, I am a middle school student. About two to three months ago, I frequently experienced unexplained soreness in my calves and lower legs, even though I had not engaged in any physical activity and could not identify any specific tender points. ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. There may be two possible causes: a. Compression of the first sacral nerve root (S1), which innervates the posterior muscles of the lower limb, including the calf, and compression of the f...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Calf Pain in Adolescents: Causes and Solutions
Alternative Treatments for Tendon Calcification in Shoulder Pain
Tendon calcification Hello Dr. Chen, my mother has been experiencing pain in her left shoulder for the past month. After a diagnosis at National Taiwan University Hospital, it was determined that she has calcific tendonitis. The doctor advised surgery, but my mother is very afrai...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello Sir: I would like to respond to your questions and provide the following suggestions: 1. Tendon calcification must be confirmed with X-rays showing calcific deposits. 2. If you are unable to lift your arm or if the abduction angle is very limited, surgical intervention shou...[Read More] Alternative Treatments for Tendon Calcification in Shoulder Pain
Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Ankle Injuries: Expert Insights
Ankle injury rehabilitation Hello Dr. Chen, I consulted you about my ankle rehabilitation at the end of June. Following your advice, I have been diligently working on my ankle, and while the swelling has subsided, it has been two months and my overall condition has improved (it...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello Sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. After a tendon or ligament injury, it is common for them to shorten and tighten. If necessary, rehabilitation therapy should be undertaken, such as shortwave diathermy and ultrasound, which have sh...[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Ankle Injuries: Expert Insights
How to Treat a Right Shoulder Injury from a Tennis Ball Hit
Tennis elbow If you have been hit on the right shoulder by a hard tennis ball, here are the recommended steps for management: 1. **Rest**: Avoid using the affected shoulder to prevent further injury. 2. **Ice**: Apply an ice pack to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes every hour to r...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. During the acute phase, you can use ice packs, rest, and take pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, ointments, or patches. 2. In the chronic phase, apply heat, and consider visiting a r...[Read More] How to Treat a Right Shoulder Injury from a Tennis Ball Hit
Understanding Comminuted Fractures: Impact on Function and Rehabilitation Needs
Comminuted fracture My brother went out last night on his bicycle to buy something and unexpectedly fell. The doctor said he has a comminuted fracture of the left elbow and will need a joint replacement. Will the surgery affect the function of his hand? Will he need rehabilitatio...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello Sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. It will affect the angles of elbow flexion and extension, as well as the angles of forearm pronation and supination, along with upper limb muscle strength. 2. You should consult an orthopedic sur...[Read More] Understanding Comminuted Fractures: Impact on Function and Rehabilitation Needs
Post-Surgery Numbness and Pain: Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Persistent numbness and pain after surgery? I have numbness and weakness in my left hand. The doctor diagnosed me with carpal tunnel syndrome and I had surgery a month ago. However, I am still experiencing numbness and pain after the surgery. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. You may consider undergoing a "nerve conduction study and electromyography" (NCS/EMG) to determine the location and severity of nerve compression. 2. If there is cervical nerve compress...[Read More] Post-Surgery Numbness and Pain: Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Rehabilitation Options for Left Middle Finger Crush Injury
Left middle finger contusion? Hello, doctor! On the last day of my summer job, my left middle finger got crushed by a machine, and it hurt so much that I thought the bone was broken. I went to see an orthopedic doctor who confirmed that the bone was not broken, stitched up the wo...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. The Rehabilitation Department has plastic splints that are more comfortable; you can visit the Rehabilitation Department for an appointment. 2. You may also enhance recovery with laser therapy and u...[Read More] Rehabilitation Options for Left Middle Finger Crush Injury
Is Your Morning Jog Causing Leg Weakness? Expert Insights
Jogging Hello, Dr. Chen! I have been jogging in the early morning for over ten years. I wear running shoes and run 15 laps of 400 meters on a standard track. Recently, I have occasionally experienced a feeling of weakness in my right leg, but it goes away quickly. I am concerned ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Since 6,000 meters is considered long-distance running, there are many causes for leg weakness, including the following points: a. Muscle overuse and lact...[Read More] Is Your Morning Jog Causing Leg Weakness? Expert Insights
Should You Seek Rehab for Shoulder Blade Pain? Expert Advice
Shoulder blade pain? Hello, Dr. Chen! My mother has been experiencing shoulder pain after carrying a reusable bag on her shoulder while shopping in recent days. The pain is particularly intense near her spine, and she also feels sharp and throbbing pain on the right side. She has...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. It could be due to muscle overuse, but it may also be related to lumbar disc herniation or facet joint syndrome. All of these conditions can be evaluated and treated in a rehabilitation department....[Read More] Should You Seek Rehab for Shoulder Blade Pain? Expert Advice
Can Rehabilitation Help with Urinary Incontinence After a Car Accident?
Car accident injuries? Dear Doctor: My father suffered severe injuries from a car accident, and all possible surgeries have been performed. However, he is experiencing urinary incontinence, which is quite troubling. I would like to know if urinary incontinence can be addressed by...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and recommendations: 1. For urinary incontinence, it is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist. If your father is mentally alert, further evaluation with urodynamic studies should be conducted to assess his blad...[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help with Urinary Incontinence After a Car Accident?
Understanding Back Pain: Do Silicone Mattresses Really Help?
Lower back pain? Hello, doctor! I saw an introduction on a TV shopping channel about a silicone mattress that seems to relieve back pain. We bought one for my mom, who often complains about her back pain, but she still feels the pain persists. Could this be an issue related to he...
Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your question. I would like to respond to your inquiry and provide the following suggestions: 1. There are many causes of lower back pain, including: A. Muscle overuse and inflammation B. Degeneration of the lumbar spine or herniated intervert...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: Do Silicone Mattresses Really Help?