Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Care
Wrist tunnel syndrome? Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing a tingling sensation in my thumb and index finger. During the night while I'm sleeping and in the morning when I gently move my arm, I feel a lot of soreness. Is this what is referred to as carpal tunn...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Your question is quite significant. Since I cannot examine you in person, I can only provide some suggestions based on your symptoms. The causes of hand numbness can range from the brain to the cervical spine, with cervical spine degeneration being the most common. Considering yo...[Read More] Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Care
Understanding Facial Tics: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Facial twitching Hello Doctor, my father started experiencing involuntary twitching in his left eye and left cheek about three years ago. Recently, he has begun to tear up and the left corner of his mouth has started to droop a bit. He is afraid to get checked out because he worr...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Since I am not able to conduct a personal examination, I can only provide suggestions based on the description. Your father's symptoms resemble facial nerve spasms and may also indicate facial nerve paralysis. It may be necessary to visit a neurology clinic for further evalu...[Read More] Understanding Facial Tics: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Challenges in Nerve Regeneration: Current Treatments and Future Prospects
The issue of nerve regeneration? I would like to ask the doctor, is there still no effective treatment for nerve regeneration? I have tried the cocktail therapy by Dr. Cheng Hong-Chih at Taipei Veterans General Hospital, but I feel that it is only suitable for those who have just...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
I do not understand the issues related to nerve regeneration. So far, the regeneration of peripheral nerves has shown better results, but breakthroughs are still needed for central nervous system regeneration![Read More] Challenges in Nerve Regeneration: Current Treatments and Future Prospects
Understanding L5-S1 Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Surgery Options
Herniated disc Doctor, I'm sorry, but I have an L5-S1 herniation, centrally displaced to the right. I mainly experience discomfort in my buttocks and calves. After undergoing acupuncture and manual therapy with traditional Chinese medicine, I've improved significantly. ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Due to the lack of a personal examination of your condition, I can only provide a suggestion based on your description. Generally speaking, if muscle atrophy has already occurred, surgical intervention is typically recommended. Such conditions are not life-threatening, but they c...[Read More] Understanding L5-S1 Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Surgery Options
Head Injury from Bar Impact: Persistent Dizziness and Pain Concerns
Head injury from hitting a horizontal bar? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about an incident that occurred on May 18 when I accidentally hit the left side of my head (temple) against a horizontal bar (there was no bleeding). After that, I felt fine from May 19 to May 20, bu...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Based on your concerns, if there is intracranial bleeding or cerebrospinal fluid leakage, it would definitely be visible during examinations. However, CT scans and EEG tests may not provide any benefit for you. As for your dizziness and headaches, these are likely sequelae of the...[Read More] Head Injury from Bar Impact: Persistent Dizziness and Pain Concerns
Understanding Neck Pain After Head Injury: Causes and Treatment Options
Hit the back of the head? Hello, Doctor. I visited you today, but I apologize for having a few more questions. I forgot to ask if discomfort in the neck, similar to stiffness, is a result of head trauma or if it is related to cervical spine issues? Also, I would like to ask if th...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
You have already visited the outpatient clinic; I suggest you ask directly at the clinic.[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain After Head Injury: Causes and Treatment Options
Could My Brother's Soccer Injury Lead to Brain Damage?
Will this lead to brain injury? Your ten-year-old brother frequently participates in soccer matches. A few days ago, during a community-organized friendly match, he was struck on the forehead by a ball kicked from close range. He experienced a headache and was taken to the hospit...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Basically, if there is no loss of consciousness, an MRI is not necessary. As for the subsequent sequelae, continuous observation is required to understand them.[Read More] Could My Brother's Soccer Injury Lead to Brain Damage?
Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: Headaches and Recovery Tips
Concussion headache Six days ago, I hit my head and experienced continuous dizziness for five minutes, but I did not lose consciousness. The area of impact did not swell significantly, but I still have a feeling of pressure and pain in my head (which is different from a migraine)...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
A concussion typically requires a loss of consciousness or a temporary memory lapse to be classified as such. If you did not lose consciousness, the current symptoms are likely sequelae following the head injury, which can sometimes persist for a period of time. In fact, about 5%...[Read More] Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: Headaches and Recovery Tips
Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Hit the back of the head? Hello, doctor. Seven days ago, I fainted in the bathroom due to the side effects of medication and hit the back of my head. However, I regained consciousness immediately after the impact, but I experienced significant headache and dizziness, although my ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Your physician's advice is correct, but it is important to consider whether there is a cervical spine injury in addition to the head trauma. Generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, there is no concern for a concussion; however, there may be some sequelae fr...[Read More] Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Do I Need Contrast for Cervical MRI? Understanding Risks and Accuracy
Cervical spine MRI Hello Dr. Ding: My mother underwent an examination for spinal nerve compression at the hospital, but the doctor indicated that she needs to have an MRI of the cervical spine with contrast injection. We are concerned about the potential side effects of the contr...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Since it is unclear why your mother needs to undergo an MRI scan, it is difficult to determine whether the use of contrast agent is necessary. It is recommended that you discuss this with her attending physician to understand the risks and necessity before making a decision.[Read More] Do I Need Contrast for Cervical MRI? Understanding Risks and Accuracy
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Herniated Discs: Your Questions Answered
About herniated discs? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about herniated discs. The electromyography (EMG) test showed no nerve damage, but I experience numbness in my legs after walking for ten minutes, although there is no pain. I am currently undergoing rehabilitation with bac...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Due to the lack of your complete information, I cannot provide specific advice! However, a herniated disc is not a cancerous condition, so there is no immediate life-threatening risk. Surgery is considered a quality of life procedure. Therefore, as long as you can tolerate your c...[Read More] Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Herniated Discs: Your Questions Answered
Understanding C1 Vertebra Fractures: Recovery, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
C1 vertebral fracture Hello Doctor, I fell from a height on December 9th last year, resulting in a fracture of the C1 vertebra (the ring-shaped vertebra shattered into four or five pieces). Fortunately, I did not sustain any nerve damage. During my follow-up appointment three mon...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Due to not having seen your data, I can only provide suggestions based on personal experience. Therefore, you still need to visit a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for diagnosis and treatment. If it is a Jefferson fracture, it is classified as an unstable fracture that requires in...[Read More] Understanding C1 Vertebra Fractures: Recovery, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Disc Surgery
Herniated Disc - Minimally Invasive Surgery - Unusual Sensation On January 31, I underwent minimally invasive discectomy for the L4-L5 intervertebral disc. Upon waking up after the single-level surgery, I immediately felt relief from the nerve compression and limb pain that had b...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Since I am not a surgeon, I cannot answer your question. However, based on experience, if the symptoms return to their original state, there are two possibilities: one is that your nerves have been damaged and will not recover; the other is that there has been a recurrence. Nowad...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Disc Surgery
Understanding Spinal Hemorrhage: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Thoracic vertebral venous and arterial hemorrhage? Hello, I would like to consult a physician. My mother is 75 years old and has had diabetes for over 20 years, along with a history of undergoing surgery for sciatica about 9 years ago. Recently, she has experienced weakness, numb...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
I am not sure what is meant by arterial and venous bleeding. Could it be a mistake in your records? I suggest you schedule an appointment with your attending physician to discuss this matter thoroughly. It is both your right and responsibility. You can also gather all relevant in...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Hemorrhage: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Chronic Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Further Neurological Evaluation
Lower back pain? My husband has been experiencing lower back pain for almost two years. He has seen many orthopedic and neurosurgeons, and X-rays showed no issues. They only mentioned that his muscles are tight, possibly due to his occupation. He has taken medication and even tri...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Simply conducting examinations for back pain does not solve the problem. Medications and rehabilitation are merely symptomatic treatments. This is a common misconception among people today, believing that advanced diagnostic tests can cure diseases. In reality, the most critical ...[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Further Neurological Evaluation
Post-Operative Concerns After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy
Postoperative Issues Following Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy Dear Doctor: I underwent minimally invasive lumbar discectomy surgery for a herniated disc at the L4/L5 level at Keelung Chang Gung Hospital on November 26. It has been one week post-surgery, and I have noticed o...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
You have previously asked the same question. It is normal to experience some neurological symptoms after surgery, and it will take time for recovery. Due to insufficient information and the lack of an in-person consultation, it is not possible to assess the severity of your condi...[Read More] Post-Operative Concerns After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy
Understanding Spinal Instability: Surgery Options and Risks Explained
Spinal instability Hello Dr. Ding, I previously underwent lumbar disc surgery without the implantation of a cage or artificial disc. For the past eight years, I have been unable to stand for long periods, which has significantly affected my work. Recently, in addition to experien...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Due to the incomplete information provided, I am unable to give you specific advice. Both implanted stents and artificial discs are used for the stability of the intervertebral space. Therefore, the choice depends on your specific medical condition. I recommend that you consult a...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Instability: Surgery Options and Risks Explained
Understanding Post-Operative Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Surgery
Minimally invasive lumbar discectomy? Dear Doctor: I underwent minimally invasive lumbar discectomy surgery for a herniated disc at the L4/L5 level on November 26 at Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. It has been a week since the surgery, and I have noticed occasional pain on ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
It is normal to experience some neurological symptoms after surgery, and it may take time for recovery. Due to insufficient information regarding the severity of your condition and neurological symptoms prior to surgery, we are unable to provide specific recommendations. We sugge...[Read More] Understanding Post-Operative Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Surgery
Understanding Nerve Damage After Neck Injury: Recovery and Concerns
Neuropathy Hello Dr. Ding, I apologize for bothering you! My father-in-law had an accident in August this year where he collided with someone, resulting in neck injuries. He has been wearing a cervical collar and is experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, neck pain, ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Any injury to the head can be collectively referred to as a head trauma. A concussion is generally defined as a loss of consciousness lasting more than 10 minutes following a head injury, with recovery of consciousness occurring within 24 hours; it is considered one of the mildes...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Damage After Neck Injury: Recovery and Concerns
Understanding Intermittent Leg Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options
Numbness and tingling in the feet? Hello Dr. Ding: I am inquiring on behalf of my wife regarding her symptoms. Currently, she experiences occasional mild tingling sensations in her lower body (the area includes her thighs and calves, but it does not affect her daily activities). ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Due to the incomplete information you provided, I can only offer suggestions based on the existing data. Generally speaking, the symptoms you describe may be caused by abnormal posture leading to spinal degeneration. Most patients experience lower back pain due to prolonged stand...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Leg Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options