Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Addressing Nerve Compression and Surgical Options
Questions regarding adjacent segments of the lumbar spine? Hello, Doctor: I have the following questions that I hope you can clarify: The patient is a 59-year-old female who underwent successful lumbar spine surgery at the L5 and S1 levels in 2012 (with interbody fusion and screw...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. It is important to determine if the compressed nerve root corresponds to the patient's symptoms. Generally, compression at the L4-5 segment affects the L5 nerve root, which typically presents as pain radiating from the buttock down to the lateral aspect of the calf...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Addressing Nerve Compression and Surgical Options
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia in Multiple Sclerosis: A Patient's Journey
Multiple sclerosis with trigeminal neuralgia Hello Doctor, about five days ago, I experienced pain when pressing on the bone above my right eyebrow, which occasionally persists as a dull ache. Recently, the tenderness has decreased, but it still remains, and the continuous pain h...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Multiple sclerosis is a rare disease with diverse symptoms. It is essential to consult a neurologist and undergo thorough examinations for an accurate diagnosis. Please do not self-diagnose or assume you have the condition without a proper evaluation from a neurologis...[Read More] Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia in Multiple Sclerosis: A Patient's Journey
Post-Spinal Surgery Pain: Should You Remove Screws After One Year?
Postoperative pain and issues related to the removal of spinal screws? I would like to ask you, I underwent lumbar fusion surgery at L4, L5, and S1 last year, where two support devices and six screws were implanted. After the surgery, I have been experiencing persistent soreness ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. If it has been 6 months post-surgery and you are still experiencing <postoperative soreness in the lower back>, it may indicate poor fusion or other segmental pathology. 2. I recommend that you first consult with your original surgeon; if there is no improvement, ...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery Pain: Should You Remove Screws After One Year?
Persistent Finger Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Numbness in the fingers of both hands? Dear Doctor: After taking a shower tonight, I started experiencing numbness in my fingers (all fingers except the thumb) that lasted for over an hour. I have had episodes of hand numbness in the past, but they would usually resolve quickly o...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected to be carpal tunnel syndrome or other conditions. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you. // Changhua Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Persistent Finger Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Numbness in Left Thumb and Index Finger: Possible Causes and Relief Tips
Numbness in the left thumb and index finger? Initially, I thought the neck stiffness was nothing serious. After a week, the pain in my neck has decreased, but I am experiencing some numbness in my left thumb and index finger. When I massage my shoulders, the left shoulder feels l...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. It is suspected to be a cervical spine issue, most commonly a cervical disc herniation that compresses the nerves. 2. Reduce the forward head posture. Temporarily wear a cervical collar. Apply heat to the shoulders and neck daily, and perform neck rehabilitation exercis...[Read More] Numbness in Left Thumb and Index Finger: Possible Causes and Relief Tips
Understanding Temporary Finger Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Transient finger pain Two weeks ago, I was tested for Sjögren's syndrome and also checked for some other complications, and all the results came back normal. However, during those days, I was pressing on the tissues of my fingers quite a bit (as I was worried about rheumatoi...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. First, stop the repetitive pressure on your fingers. 2. Soak your hands and feet in warm water daily (at a temperature that won't cause burns). 3. If there is no improvement after 2 weeks, it is advisable to consult a physician. Best wishes. // Neurosurgery Dr. Lai...[Read More] Understanding Temporary Finger Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, three years ago I had an MRI that showed a mild herniation of the intervertebral disc between the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae, which caused some nerve discomfort in my right leg. However, I did not experience any recurrence until recently. In the pas...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected that you have a herniated disc compressing the nerve, leading to recurrent symptoms. You should consult another neurosurgeon who has arranged for an MRI. Wishing you the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding CT Scan Results: Calcium Deposits and Teflon Concerns After Surgery
Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain? Hello, doctor. I underwent a decompression surgery for left-sided facial spasms at the end of 2016. At that time, the physician informed me that the surgical method involved creating an opening in the left posterior part of the brain an...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Generally, it is unlikely. 2. It depends on the actual imaging. 3. An MRI of the cervical spine should be performed to assess whether the symptoms are caused by cervical nerve compression. 4. Cerebral calcifications can be classified into physiological and pathological ...[Read More] Understanding CT Scan Results: Calcium Deposits and Teflon Concerns After Surgery
Understanding Sharp Pain in the Upper Left Back: Causes and Solutions
Back issues - sharp pain in the upper left back? Hello, doctor. Since last year, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my upper left back. It feels like there is a needle stabbing me, and sometimes it hurts when I move my arm, while at other times it hurts even when...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Preliminary assessment suggests that at your age, the muscle fascia pain and inflammation are likely caused by poor posture. You can start by correcting your posture, keeping your head up and chest out, and avoiding prolonged bending forward or slouching. Apply heat to the...[Read More] Understanding Sharp Pain in the Upper Left Back: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pain and Numbness in Elderly Patients with Prostate Cancer
Foot pain with numbness and tingling? My father is in his eighties and has prostate cancer. He experiences pain on both sides of his buttocks, and his legs feel sore and numb, making it difficult for him to walk. He also has urinary and fecal incontinence. He has seen a neurologi...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected to be an issue with the lumbar spinal nerves. It is recommended to consult a hospital's <Neurosurgery> department. Best wishes to you. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of the Spine Neurosurgery Department, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Pain and Numbness in Elderly Patients with Prostate Cancer
Dealing with Post-Surgery Recurrence: Options After Spinal Disc Replacement
Postoperative recurrence About four to five years ago, I underwent a procedure to replace 4-5 segments of cartilage due to nerve compression. The doctor assured me that replacing the artificial cartilage would be a permanent solution. However, I now find myself in the same situat...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If you have any doubts about Dr. Yuan's explanation, I suggest you consult another neurosurgeon. The images speak for themselves. Please copy the MRI image disc and bring it to your next appointment. Wishing you all the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Ne...[Read More] Dealing with Post-Surgery Recurrence: Options After Spinal Disc Replacement
Understanding Finger Pain: Nerve Injury or Bone Damage?
Finger issues? On April 10th, a blood draw was performed using a lancet on the left index finger, approximately one-third from the tip. After the procedure, the area was disinfected with alcohol and covered with a bandage. After the wound healed that day, light pressure on the ar...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, a standard blood draw needle will not penetrate to the bone, and there are no major nerves at the tip of the index finger. It is recommended that you observe for two weeks, as it usually improves on its own. If there is no improvement, you may consult a general surgeon or ...[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Nerve Injury or Bone Damage?
Understanding Facial Nerve Disorders: Treatment Options and Insights
Facial nerve spasms? Hello, doctor... I have been experiencing facial nerve issues for over six years. I previously consulted traditional Chinese medicine, but my mouth continues to twitch and hasn't fully recovered. Is it really impossible to treat? Would switching to a pla...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Your symptoms are likely indicative of facial nerve spasms. It is recommended to consult a senior neurosurgeon at a medical center. 2. Common causes include compression of the facial nerve in the brain by nearby blood vessels, leading to abnormal electrical short-circui...[Read More] Understanding Facial Nerve Disorders: Treatment Options and Insights
Understanding Upper Right Back Numbness: Causes and Solutions
Numbness in the upper right back during work? When I work, I experience a large area of tingling in my upper right back, but it quickly resolves when my right hand is not in use. This symptom has been present for a month.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected that the shoulder and back pain is due to muscle fascia strain and inflammation from work-related activities. It is recommended to perform stretching and warm-up exercises before work. Take short breaks every 0.5 to 1 hour during work. After returning home,...[Read More] Understanding Upper Right Back Numbness: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hyperhidrosis: Choosing the Right Specialist and Treatment Options
Hyperhidrosis issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about which specialty I should consult for the evaluation of hyperhidrosis. I have researched surgical options, but I am hesitant to decide due to potential compensatory sweating and other postoperative issues. Addition...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. The causes of hyperhidrosis can be divided into primary and secondary; primary hyperhidrosis accounts for the majority and is mainly caused by hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system leading to abnormal sweating. Secondary hyperhidrosis is often due to condition...[Read More] Understanding Hyperhidrosis: Choosing the Right Specialist and Treatment Options
Understanding OPLL Treatment Options and Estimated Costs
Treatment options for OPLL (Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament) and estimated initial costs? Hello Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with OPLL at the cervical spine levels C3-C7. The doctor suggested using a mini plate for laminoplasty or an anterior cervical disc...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. If the diagnosis of OPLL is confirmed and aligns with your symptoms, when planning for surgery, the general recommendation is posterior decompression surgery (laminoplasty with mini-plate or laminectomy with posterior minimally invasive screw fixation): mini-plates are ...[Read More] Understanding OPLL Treatment Options and Estimated Costs
Understanding OPLL Treatment Options and Estimated Costs in the U.S.
Treatment options for OPLL (Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament) and estimated costs? Hello Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with OPLL at the cervical spine levels C3-C7. The doctor suggested performing laminoplasty with a mini plate through a posterior approach, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. If the diagnosis of OPLL is confirmed and aligns with your symptoms, when planning for surgery, the general recommendation is posterior decompression surgery (laminoplasty with mini-plate or laminectomy with posterior minimally invasive screw fixation): mini-plates are ...[Read More] Understanding OPLL Treatment Options and Estimated Costs in the U.S.
Post-Surgery Concerns for Severe Lumbar Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Postoperative Issues Following Severe Cartilage Extrusion in Segments 4-5 I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Recently, I experienced severe lower back pain that left me unable to move, so I went to the hospital. The examination results showed that there was severe herni...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Did you have the symptoms you mentioned before the surgery, such as complete swelling and numbness in the lower body, along with loss of bladder and bowel control? If so, it may indicate that there was already prolonged nerve compression prior to the surgery. 2. If thes...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns for Severe Lumbar Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Post-Accident Neurological Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery
Regarding dizziness after a car accident, issues related to the frontal lobe of the brain, neck problems, and intracranial hemorrhage? Hello, Doctor: Regarding the topic in question, I suffered a head injury after a car accident while wearing a helmet, and I lost consciousness up...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
1. Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a type of intracranial hemorrhage. 2. Observation and treatment may be possible for 3-6 months, with potential improvement. There is no specific medication, but acupuncture treatment in conjunction with traditional Chinese medicine can be considered....[Read More] Post-Accident Neurological Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery
Can Herniated Discs Shrink or Be Absorbed Through Rehabilitation?
Herniated disc Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a herniated disc complicated by spinal stenosis can have the protruding portion reduced or absorbed by the body through rehabilitation. I previously asked some questions and scheduled a surgery, but I have noticed that the disc...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Rehabilitation primarily involves lumbar traction (spinal decompression), aiming to open up the intervertebral discs to relieve pressure. However, once the treatment ends and the machine is released, the effects may diminish. After several sessions, this can help allevi...[Read More] Can Herniated Discs Shrink or Be Absorbed Through Rehabilitation?