Should You Remove a Bone Plate After Healing? Key Considerations
Does the plate need to be removed? In late April of last year, I fell while playing basketball and my hand was crushed, resulting in a comminuted fracture of the left radius and dislocation of the left wrist. The doctor performed an internal fixation surgery using a plate for the...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: In the case of a comminuted fracture of the radius, if surgical reduction and plate fixation have been performed and the fracture has healed for over a year without any discomfort, there is generally no need to remove the plate. However, if there is any discomfort, you may...[Read More] Should You Remove a Bone Plate After Healing? Key Considerations
Post-Surgery Care for Tibial Plateau Fractures: Risks and Recovery Tips
Closed fracture of the left tibial plateau with displacement? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I had a car accident on April 23 and underwent surgery on April 27. The doctor mentioned that my meniscus and other structures were damaged due to the arthroscopy, ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After surgery for a tibial plateau fracture, if you accidentally put weight on your leg while standing and have no symptoms, it should be fine. As for sleeping on your side, as long as you feel comfortable, it should not be an issue, but it is still recommended to avoid heavy pre...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Tibial Plateau Fractures: Risks and Recovery Tips
Understanding Delayed Healing in Distal Clavicle Fractures
Distal clavicle fracture Hello doctor, I have a distal clavicle fracture in my left arm. I have been undergoing conservative treatment for 88 days. A few days ago, during a follow-up visit, the X-ray still showed a gap in the fracture, with only the lower part appearing slightly ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: In the case of a lateral clavicle fracture, it is more difficult to stabilize without surgery, but callus formation will still occur. The specific situation should be assessed in conjunction with your attending physician. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Hong Hsi-Ming[Read More] Understanding Delayed Healing in Distal Clavicle Fractures
Understanding Periosteal Hyperplasia: Is Military Service Possible?
Periosteal proliferation Hello, doctor. A year ago, I had a motorcycle accident that caused inflammation in my knee. I didn't rest properly, which led to chronic inflammation and significant pain. Eventually, I stopped working to rest and undergo rehabilitation. After some t...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: There is a bony prominence due to periosteal proliferation on the knee. You can visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for a diagnosis before enlistment, or have it re-evaluated by a military physician after enlistment. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Hong Hsi-Ming[Read More] Understanding Periosteal Hyperplasia: Is Military Service Possible?
Do You Need to See a Doctor for Tibial Stress Fractures?
Tibial stress fracture Is it necessary to see a doctor for a tibial stress fracture? What could happen if I don't seek medical attention?
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
A tibial stress fracture definitely requires a visit to a doctor. Otherwise, how can a diagnosis be established and appropriate treatment be provided?[Read More] Do You Need to See a Doctor for Tibial Stress Fractures?
Recovery Timeline for Fifth Metatarsal Fracture After Surgery
Fracture of the fifth metatarsal of the right foot? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. I fractured my fifth metatarsal on November 20 due to a car accident and underwent surgery on November 21, where two small screws were inserted on the side. However, they were remov...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After more than 8 weeks post-surgery for a fifth metatarsal fracture, if X-rays show that the fracture has healed, you can walk and ride a bike normally, gradually increasing weight-bearing activities.[Read More] Recovery Timeline for Fifth Metatarsal Fracture After Surgery
Recovery Timeline After Ankle Screw Removal: What to Expect
Post-operative issues following ankle screw removal? Hello, two years ago I injured my ankle and suffered a fibula fracture. I had surgery to insert a metal plate, and I just had it removed. How long will it take to return to sports? How long until I can fully recover to engage i...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After the removal of the steel pins following a fracture healing, it is best to protect the area for six weeks before engaging in strengthening exercises, and to avoid any re-injury.[Read More] Recovery Timeline After Ankle Screw Removal: What to Expect
Understanding Femoral Neck Fractures: Risks and Recovery at 70
Left femoral neck fracture with displacement? Hello Doctor, I originally collapsed and fell due to sudden fever while undergoing rehabilitation at the hospital. I was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and was admitted. Initially, I thought the fever caused weakness in my l...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Femoral neck fractures require surgical treatment, and if there are other bodily infections, it may increase the surgical risks. Surgery should only be performed when the patient's condition allows, to avoid impacting the healing and recovery process.[Read More] Understanding Femoral Neck Fractures: Risks and Recovery at 70
Understanding Rehabilitation After Ankle Fracture: Key Questions Answered
Fracture rehabilitation issues? Hello Dr. Hong, three months ago I fractured my right ankle. I have undergone internal fixation surgery and had my cast removed for a month now, but I find it difficult to go down stairs and squat. I would like to ask: 1. Is there a time limit for ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Three months after an ankle fracture surgery, the fracture should be healed. It is recommended to strengthen the rehabilitation process as much as possible to restore joint and ligament function quickly, in order to prevent irreversible limitations in mobility.[Read More] Understanding Rehabilitation After Ankle Fracture: Key Questions Answered
Can You Still Grow Taller If Wrist Growth Plates Are Closed?
Growth plate issues If the growth plate in the wrist has already closed, but the growth plate in the knees has not, is there still a chance for further height increase?
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
If the growth plates in the knees have not yet closed, theoretically, there should still be an opportunity for growth in height.[Read More] Can You Still Grow Taller If Wrist Growth Plates Are Closed?
Can I Lift Heavy Objects Three Months After Clavicle Surgery?
After a clavicle fracture surgery, is it safe to lift heavy objects three months post-operation? Hello Doctor, I had a bicycle accident around mid-September, resulting in a clavicle fracture (approximately in the middle). I underwent a self-funded surgery to implant a plate, and ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Three months after a clavicle fracture surgery, if the fracture has healed, one should be able to lift heavy objects. However, it is important to progress gradually and avoid torsional movements to prevent a secondary fracture.[Read More] Can I Lift Heavy Objects Three Months After Clavicle Surgery?
Post-ACL Reconstruction: Safe Weight Training and Exercise Intensity
Post-recovery exercise intensity after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear? Hello, doctor. About three years ago, I suffered a rupture of my right posterior cruciate ligament and underwent arthroscopic ligament reconstruction and rehabilitation. Recently, during a military phys...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After a successful reconstruction surgery for a torn cruciate ligament, recovery is generally good, and it should be possible to engage in weight training to strengthen muscles, which can further enhance joint stability. However, it is important to proceed with caution and be min...[Read More] Post-ACL Reconstruction: Safe Weight Training and Exercise Intensity
Understanding Rib and Collarbone Injuries After a Car Accident
Rib issues & chest contusions I consulted a doctor three weeks ago due to a car accident that resulted in a fracture of the left rib and a clavicle fracture. It has been three weeks, and the skin on my left chest still shows a light yellow discoloration that won't go awa...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: After rib and clavicle fractures, there may be subcutaneous bleeding. It has been three weeks, and it is normal for it to gradually absorb and appear light yellow. It will slowly improve. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Hong Hsi-Ming[Read More] Understanding Rib and Collarbone Injuries After a Car Accident
Persistent Swelling After Foot Injury: Causes and Next Steps
Swelling in the feet that does not subside? Work-related injury resulted in a fracture of the foot bones, with a brace applied. After six months of rehabilitation, the doctor said I could return to work. After three days of work, swelling occurred, and upon follow-up, the doctor ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: You have a foot bone fracture that has been present for six months. The fracture should have healed by now, but there is poor blood circulation. It is recommended to continue with warm compress treatments and to engage in normal activities, which will lead to improvement. ...[Read More] Persistent Swelling After Foot Injury: Causes and Next Steps
Managing Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Key Questions and Insights
Management of fifth metatarsal fracture? On November 12th, I sprained my ankle, and after one day of swelling and inability to walk, I had an X-ray. The doctor indicated that I am currently in the acute phase, and both MRI and ultrasound only show a lot of inflammatory tissue, ma...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: A fifth metatarsal fracture should be assessed through X-rays to determine if surgical treatment is necessary. Swelling and bruising after the injury are unavoidable, and it is not always necessary to perform ultrasound or MRI. Please trust the recommendations of a profess...[Read More] Managing Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Knee Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Knee issues I have been experiencing pain above my right knee for two weeks. The pain feels like a needle prick and worsens when going up and down stairs or when getting up from a seated position. I have researched online and suspect it might be quadriceps tendinitis. I don'...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: Pain above the knee for two weeks may be due to osteomalacia of the hip. Going up and down stairs tends to be more painful. During this time, it is advisable to minimize pressure on the knee and avoid stairs as much as possible. With time, it should gradually improve. Wish...[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Post-Surgery Wrist Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Postoperative wrist pain? Hello, doctor. A year ago, I had a large ganglion cyst on my wrist, which caused a tingling sensation. I had it removed using an endoscopic procedure, but recently, I have been experiencing persistent soreness in my wrist, and sometimes the pain radiates...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
It has been one year since the wrist ganglion cyst surgery. If there are any symptoms, please return to the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Post-Surgery Wrist Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Self-Testing for Piriformis Syndrome vs. Disc Issues: A Guide
Can I self-test to determine if the issue is related to the piriformis muscle or the intervertebral disc? Hello doctor, I have a problem with lower back pain, but I'm not sure if it's related to a disc issue or the piriformis muscle. I would like to self-test. I have pr...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Based on your description, MRI scans have been conducted, and it seems that the nerve compression is not severe. Only the nerve roots in the left buttock and the outer side of the left calf are affected, while the piriformis muscle is not involved. Therefore, it is more likely to...[Read More] Self-Testing for Piriformis Syndrome vs. Disc Issues: A Guide
Post-Car Accident Knee Issues: Managing Pain and Exercise Effects
Post-accident sequelae and the impact of exercise? In early March, I had a car accident where my right knee directly hit the ground. When I went to the hospital, I was prescribed painkillers and told that the X-ray showed no significant injuries. After some time, I felt that ther...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
The sensation of tightness in the knee joint, along with the tendency to produce sounds, is likely a result of overuse and stress, leading to cartilage softening and wear. It is recommended to switch to exercises that place less stress on the joints. Additionally, consulting a sp...[Read More] Post-Car Accident Knee Issues: Managing Pain and Exercise Effects
Understanding Shoulder Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Sports Injuries
Pain in the levator scapulae muscle? I used to engage in intense physical activities frequently, and I'm not sure if I have injured my shoulders. I often experience soreness on both sides of my neck extending to my upper back, especially when I doze off; my entire upper body...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
If you are experiencing muscle soreness from the sides of your neck to your shoulders, you should consult a specialist in sports rehabilitation.[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Sports Injuries