Can a Long-Lasting Muscle Strain Be Healed? Insights from an Orthopedic Perspective
Permanent strain..? Hello Dr. Hong, I was in the second year of junior high school (14 years old) when I was training for middle-distance track events. During one practice session, I experienced a hamstring strain due to overtraining. At that time, I did not receive any treatmen...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello, A Yi: I am sorry to hear about your thigh muscle strain, which has caused difficulties in your daily life. Some injuries can be permanent and may not return to their original strength; you will need to rely on self-training and rehabilitation to compensate for the impaired...[Read More] Can a Long-Lasting Muscle Strain Be Healed? Insights from an Orthopedic Perspective
Understanding Knee Ligament Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Medial and lateral collateral ligaments of the knee? I injured the outer side of my right foot when I was playing basketball and was hit by an opponent's knee. It was very painful at the time, and I could barely walk. The next day, the doctor said there was no bone injury an...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Injuries to the lateral side of the knee typically involve damage to the medial and lateral collateral ligaments as well as the meniscus. The usual treatment approach is to first observe the condition and then determine whether arthroscopic examination or surgical intervention is...[Read More] Understanding Knee Ligament Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-Arthroscopy Recovery: Understanding Pain and Rehabilitation for ACL Injuries
Post-arthroscopic surgery My father is 52 years old. He had a fall ten months ago and underwent acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, hyaluronic acid injections, and an MRI, but no ligament tear was detected. Later, he had arthroscopic surgery, which revealed a torn anterior...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello Kyle: You have a torn cruciate ligament along with cartilage damage, and you underwent arthroscopy. The physician should provide a detailed explanation, as they are the most knowledgeable about your case. Generally, the need for reconstruction depends on the severity of the...[Read More] Post-Arthroscopy Recovery: Understanding Pain and Rehabilitation for ACL Injuries
Persistent Ligament Inflammation in the Foot: Causes and Treatment Options
The inflammation of the plantar ligaments has persisted for a year and has not healed? Hello Doctor, my mother is 57 years old. Over a year ago, she started experiencing some pain in her feet while walking (initially, it was pain in the ligaments on the sides of her ankles, but o...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello, The condition commonly referred to as "foot pain" is often caused by plantar fasciitis, which leads to altered gait and subsequently affects the ligaments of the ankle joint. Treatment should begin with changes to footwear; insoles must be ergonomically designe...[Read More] Persistent Ligament Inflammation in the Foot: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Your Back Pain: Is It Sciatica or Something Else?
After seeing an orthopedic specialist for a long time, the old problem still persists? I would like to ask! When I bend over to look in the mirror, my lower back starts to ache immediately, and it becomes quite painful. However, once I stand up, I feel more comfortable. Sometimes...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
A-Le: Experiencing soreness when bending over indicates that the lower back is under significant pressure. If this persists over time and extends to both legs, it may suggest nerve compression, which requires a CT scan or MRI to check for a herniated disc. I recommend that you ge...[Read More] Understanding Your Back Pain: Is It Sciatica or Something Else?
Impact of Retained Bone Pins on Older Adults: What You Need to Know
Does leaving a fracture fixation nail in the body have any effects on health? Hello Dr. Hong, My mother was in a car accident in July of this year, resulting in a fracture of her tibia (with a steel nail implanted that needs to be surgically removed). During her follow-up appoin...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
SAM: After internal fixation with steel nails following a fracture, it is generally best to remove them after one to one and a half years once the fracture has healed. However, if the patient is older or has other considerations, not removing them will not affect health. Moreover...[Read More] Impact of Retained Bone Pins on Older Adults: What You Need to Know
Managing Elbow Dislocation Recovery: Tips for Pain Relief and Healing
Elbow dislocation Six months ago, I practiced judo and accidentally dislocated my elbow. I went to a martial arts school to have it adjusted, and I thought it had healed. However, now it feels sore and painful. Previously, I saw a doctor who prescribed a topical ointment and advi...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: After an elbow dislocation, it is necessary to rest for four weeks to allow the joint and ligaments to regain their original tension before starting rehabilitation. Your current soreness or swelling may be due to insufficient rest and rehabilitation after the injury, leadi...[Read More] Managing Elbow Dislocation Recovery: Tips for Pain Relief and Healing
Impact of Stair Climbing on Knees with Valgus Deformity
Daily exercise Does walking up and down stairs have an impact on the knees for individuals with genu valgum (knock-knees)?
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Zhang Hui: Hello, essentially, genu valgum (knock-knees) alters the center of gravity in our body, leading to wear and tear on the knee joint. Walking up and down stairs will certainly accelerate this wear and contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.[Read More] Impact of Stair Climbing on Knees with Valgus Deformity
ACL Reconstruction Options for Patients with Patellar Tendon Injury
I want to undergo anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery, but I have a history of patellar tendon rupture? Hello, doctor. A few years ago, I ruptured my anterior cruciate ligament while playing basketball. I've been experiencing persistent knee pain and woul...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Wan: Hello, currently for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, there are many available graft options. In addition to the patellar tendon and synthetic grafts, the semimembranosus tendon from the thigh can also be utilized.[Read More] ACL Reconstruction Options for Patients with Patellar Tendon Injury
Effective Care Strategies for Ligament Injuries: A Guide to Recovery
Treatment of ligament injuries? Hello! I fell on September 16 and landed on my right hand, after which I heard a "pop" sound. I couldn't use my right hand or lift it. I saw an orthopedic doctor who said it might be a ligament injury, but he didn't prescribe an...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Gimmy, your symptoms seem to be located around the left and right shoulder joints. The inability to lift your arms may be a residual effect of a ligament injury. You should consult an orthopedic physician for further examination to determine the cause, which is essential for subs...[Read More] Effective Care Strategies for Ligament Injuries: A Guide to Recovery
Understanding Cartilage Softening: Recovery Time and Long-Term Effects
Chondromalacia Hello Doctor, I received your reply, so I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. If I rest, how long should I rest? During this rest period, am I completely unable to use my leg? 2. If I recover, can I not immediately overuse it? 3. If I delay my recovery ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
1. It is best to rest for at least six months, during which you can engage in walking exercises to strengthen the quadriceps. 2. Overuse should certainly be avoided. 3. If the condition is prolonged, it may lead to irreversible damage, resulting in the early onset of traumatic or...[Read More] Understanding Cartilage Softening: Recovery Time and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Arthroscopy: Causes of Meniscus Swelling and Procedure Insights
Arthroscopy Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask... My right knee has been experiencing pain on the inner joint area. Initially, I received acupuncture and massage from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, but after 2 to 3 months, there was no improvement (I cannot stand or...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Lin: Patellar valgus is caused by a change in the body's center of gravity, leading to cartilage softening, resulting in pain and wear on the medial side of the knee joint. If there is a sports injury, it can cause meniscal tears. Arthroscopic surgery requires anesthesia and...[Read More] Understanding Arthroscopy: Causes of Meniscus Swelling and Procedure Insights
Managing Cartilage Softening: Tips for Athletes with Knee Pain
Cartilage softening Hello doctor, I am an athlete who has experienced cartilage softening in my knee due to long-term overuse from practicing long jump. I have been in pain for nearly a year, and recently the symptoms have been increasing. The pain is primarily on the outer side ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Chondromalacia commonly occurs in the patella (kneecap) due to overuse of the quadriceps muscle, leading to an inability of the subchondral bone beneath the patellar cartilage to support the pressure. Receiving an injection may not be effective without adequate rest. Additionally...[Read More] Managing Cartilage Softening: Tips for Athletes with Knee Pain
Is ACL Reconstruction Necessary? Understanding Your Options After Injury
Is it necessary to reconstruct a torn posterior cruciate ligament? Hello Dr. Hong, I am 24 years old and female. I was injured in a car accident at the beginning of July, and after an MRI, it was found that I have a ruptured ligament on the inner side of my right foot and a com...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Xiao Hui: Based on your description, a rupture of both the posterior cruciate ligament and the medial collateral ligament will lead to instability in the knee joint, making walking very difficult. I still recommend that you consult an experienced orthopedic surgeon for a thorough...[Read More] Is ACL Reconstruction Necessary? Understanding Your Options After Injury
Positive Effects of N-Acetylglucosamine on Joint Health
N-Acetylglucosamine Hello Dr. Hong: May I ask if N-acetylglucosamine has a positive effect on the joints? Can it improve knee joint conditions? Thank you very much.
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
According to the report, glucosamine has a positive effect on joints, as it can increase synovial fluid within the joints and reduce joint wear. However, if joint degeneration is too severe, its effectiveness is limited. In contrast, the effects of hyaluronic acid joint injection...[Read More] Positive Effects of N-Acetylglucosamine on Joint Health
Understanding Knee Pain: Insights and Remedies for Young Adults
My knee hurts so much! I am 24 years old, and five years ago, I was rear-ended by another motorcycle while riding. My knees hit the ground with significant force, and I was taken to the hospital for treatment and followed up daily. However, five years later, I still experience sw...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Based on your description, it seems to be intra-articular effusion. Generally, after a joint injury, engaging in more vigorous activities can lead to this condition, but it usually resolves on its own after a few days of rest. However, it is best to accurately determine the under...[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: Insights and Remedies for Young Adults
Rehabilitation Strategies After ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Rehabilitation after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction I just had arthroscopic surgery for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and I am currently using crutches to walk. My attending physician mentioned that I can stop using the crutches if I can walk on my o...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery, a rehabilitation program should be established to train and restore strength in the leg. Please visit a rehabilitation or orthopedic clinic to consult with a specialist who can guide you on the correct reha...[Read More] Rehabilitation Strategies After ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After ATV Riding: Causes and Solutions
Experiencing pain radiating from the right side of the back near the sternum? Hello Dr. Hong, Last week, I went on a trip with friends and after riding what I believe is called an ATV, I returned home (I was carrying a professional camera at the time, and since it was my first ...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Based on the symptoms you described, it seems to be a strain of the back muscles. If it is indeed a back muscle strain, a rest period of 2 to 3 weeks is necessary, followed by some physical rehabilitation therapy. During this time, heat therapy or symptomatic treatment can be app...[Read More] Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After ATV Riding: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pectus Carinatum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Barrel chest Dear Dr. Hong, Hello. My husband has a wider than normal anteroposterior diameter of the chest. He enjoys playing basketball, but he has experienced shortness of breath and chest pain after playing. He has undergone an electrocardiogram and chest X-ray at the hospit...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Xiaodou: The chicken breast bone is congenital and does not require special treatment as long as it does not affect its function. It is recommended to conduct a pulmonary function test to confirm whether it is functioning normally. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Pectus Carinatum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Sesamoid Bone Injuries: Treatment and Recovery for Dancers
Regarding sesamoid bones? Hello Doctor: The day before yesterday, I experienced pain on the inner side of my left foot while practicing ballroom dancing (wearing high-heeled dance shoes), to the point where I couldn't walk to the hospital. The doctor examined an X-ray and sa...
Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Natasha: The number of sesamoid bones varies from person to person; it is not necessarily one or two. However, if the pain is severe enough to prevent walking, a fracture should be considered, especially if the X-ray shows it. The only treatment is to rest until the fracture heal...[Read More] Understanding Sesamoid Bone Injuries: Treatment and Recovery for Dancers