Understanding Leg Numbness and Color Changes: When to Seek Help
Numbness in the feet? Hello Doctor, I usually have a habit of sitting cross-legged, but recently I've noticed that my feet turn severely purple when I sit this way! When I stop sitting cross-legged, the color returns to normal. Lately, my feet have also been feeling sore, co...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it is suspected to be a blood circulation issue. I recommend seeing a physician in the cardiology or cardiovascular surgery department first. If vascular problems are ruled out, then consider consulting a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Best wishes. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Ch...[Read More] Understanding Leg Numbness and Color Changes: When to Seek Help
Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, last month I went to the hospital for an examination due to lower back pain and found out that I have multiple herniated discs, with the first, second, fourth, and fifth discs being the most severe (the fourth and fifth discs are completely herniated ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
1. Over 90% improvement is achievable, with a safety rate of over 99% (unless there are specific underlying conditions) (##but this depends on the surgical method you ultimately choose##). 2. It is essential to review your imaging and symptoms. The benefits of the product come ...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Cervical spine fracture Hello, Doctor. I was in a car accident on November 10th last year, where I was rear-ended by a car traveling at 14 km/h. At the time, I sustained abrasions on my right knee and shoulder. After nearly four months of follow-up, while driving on February 26th...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If you have a fracture of the odontoid process of the second cervical vertebra and surgery is not required, you will need to wear a SOMI (Sterno-Occipital-Mandibular Immobilizer) collar for about 3 to 6 months, even while sleeping. If your symptoms persist and MRI shows th...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Understanding Ear Warmth and Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help
Numbness in the head and hands when lying down? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing unexplained warmth in my ear; it suddenly feels warm in my right ear while sitting, and I also feel a bit of pressure in my head. At first, I didn't think much of it, but when I lie down ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: I recommend that you see a neurologist for evaluation. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Ear Warmth and Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Neck and Shoulder Pain: Neurological Insights and Solutions
Shoulder and neck body issues? Hello doctor, for the past three months, I have been experiencing occasional mild pain and tightness in the middle of my left posterior neck. Sometimes, it extends to my left shoulder, causing discomfort, and occasionally, I also feel tightness in m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: The preliminary assessment suggests a cervical nerve issue. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon and arrange for an MRI to evaluate the severity. Best wishes to you. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang[Read More] Understanding Neck and Shoulder Pain: Neurological Insights and Solutions
Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Spondylolisthesis Hello Dr. Lai: Previously, when you came to Taitung Hospital for support, I visited your clinic. You reviewed my MRI results and diagnosed me with spondylolisthesis at the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first sacral vertebra. You recommended that I undergo spinal...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Minimally invasive surgery without screws involves only removing the tissue that compresses the nerves and placing a soft cushion underneath, or removing the entire damaged intervertebral disc and then replacing it with a fusion cage, which can improve your condition....[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Weakness and Tightness in Legs After Prolonged Sitting
After sitting for about 2-3 hours, there is a feeling of weakness in the thighs and tightness in the calves? Hello, Doctor. Recently, whenever I sit for about 2-3 hours, I experience weakness in my thighs and tightness in my calf muscles. The first time I noticed this was two yea...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
It seems like you are experiencing neurological symptoms. You may want to consult a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you. // Changhua Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Weakness and Tightness in Legs After Prolonged Sitting
Post-Surgery Medication Concerns for Cervical Disc Patients
Postoperative medication issues after cervical spine surgery? Hello, I was diagnosed with a cervical disc rupture in mid-September and underwent minimally invasive surgery to have two fully mobile implants placed. After being discharged, I subsequently developed bronchitis, and a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: a. There is a slight heaviness in the right eyelid: it may be necessary to consult a neurologist for evaluation. b. For the treatment of depression: please discuss with a psychiatrist. Additionally, regarding whether hepatitis B patients are suitable for taking Cymbalta (d...[Read More] Post-Surgery Medication Concerns for Cervical Disc Patients
Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Herniated disc Hello, doctor. My family member is 58 years old and has been diagnosed with herniated discs at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, along with nerve compression. I have attached MRI images: (I apologize for uploading multiple images as I wasn't sure which on...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, 1. Your family member has significant nerve compression, with the most severe being at the L4-5 level, where there is already a herniation and rupture. Medically, surgery has been recommended. However, if symptoms have improved, continuing conservative rehabilitation is ...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, Numbness, and Treatment Options
Cervical cone issues Hello, my father is nearly 70 years old. For the past few months, he has been experiencing shoulder pain that prevents him from sleeping. After visiting the hospital for an examination, the imaging results indicated that there is tightness and compression at ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Based on your description, the symptoms indicate cervical nerve compression. The initial pain evolving into numbness suggests nerve deterioration. 2. Whether surgery is necessary will depend on the MRI findings. 3. Generally, conservative treatment includes medication a...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, Numbness, and Treatment Options
Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Treatment Options and Risks
Cervical cone issues Hello, my father is nearly 70 years old. For the past few months, he has been experiencing shoulder pain that prevents him from sleeping. After visiting the hospital for an examination, the imaging results indicated that the tightness and compression at cervi...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Based on your description, the symptoms indicate cervical nerve compression. The initial pain evolving into numbness suggests worsening of the nerve condition. 2. Whether surgery is necessary will depend on the MRI findings. 3. Generally, conservative treatment includes...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Treatment Options and Risks
Is It Normal to Experience Head and Shoulder Pain After a Head Injury?
Head struck against the wall? Hello Doctor: I bumped the right side of my head against a wall on October 11th. It wasn't very painful on the day of the incident or the following day, but starting on October 13th, I've been experiencing pain from the right side of my hea...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, you may have a cervical spine issue. If it persists for 1-2 weeks, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you from Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, the Director of Spine Neurosurgery at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Is It Normal to Experience Head and Shoulder Pain After a Head Injury?
Understanding Nerve Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Hand issues? Hello, doctor. For the past year, I have experienced a tingling sensation in my right hand when positioned at certain angles (such as when riding a bicycle or a motorcycle). The tingling immediately alleviates when I change positions. However, four months ago, I bega...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, your condition is likely carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by compression of the nerves in the palm area. It is recommended that you consult with a neurosurgeon for evaluation and examination. Best wishes. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Cauda Equina Syndrome After L5-S1 Surgery: Symptoms and Concerns
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about issues related to the lumbar spine and bowel elimination? Last year, I underwent a subcutaneous endoscopic surgery at the L5-S1 level. About two months post-operation, I experienced lower back pain due to straining during bowel movemen...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, please return to your original physician for the lumbar endoscopic surgery as soon as possible. Wishing you the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine and Neurosurgery Department, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Cauda Equina Syndrome After L5-S1 Surgery: Symptoms and Concerns
Post-Surgery Concerns After Endoscopic Disc Herniation Treatment
Postoperative Issues Following Endoscopic Discectomy Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I underwent decompression surgery for a herniated disc at levels L3, L4, and L5 on September 18. Three weeks have passed, and I have been experiencing a burning sensation ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: You have already undergone endoscopic discectomy at another hospital and are experiencing the neurological discomfort you described. You should communicate this with your surgeon, as they are the most familiar with the details of the surgical procedure. If you feel that yo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns After Endoscopic Disc Herniation Treatment
Understanding Nerve Issues: Tremors, Numbness, and Speech Difficulties
Tremors, body numbness, and difficulty speaking? 1. After riding a bike for about 20 minutes, my buttocks become completely numb, and my back often feels tingly and prickly. 2. Recently, while typing, my left thumb has been shaking involuntarily. 3. I've noticed that when I ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. It may be a lumbar spine issue causing sciatica. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon. 2+3: First, see a neurologist to rule out any cranial nerve problems. Best wishes // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Issues: Tremors, Numbness, and Speech Difficulties
Understanding Right Leg Tightness and Hand Numbness: Possible Causes and Solutions
There is an abnormal tightness sensation in the right thigh, accompanied by slight numbness in the hand? Hello Dr. Lai, I would like to ask if you could help me with a preliminary diagnosis of my condition. It started around February of last year, and my current symptoms include ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. The hand <the right hand also feels a bit prone to numbness, particularly the ring and little fingers...> is mainly due to nerve compression in the hand. It may also be caused by cervical spine issues, and a nerve conduction study (NCS) is needed for differentiati...[Read More] Understanding Right Leg Tightness and Hand Numbness: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Lumbar Spondylolisthesis and Surgical Options
Spondylolysis with lumbar spondylolisthesis? Hello Doctor, four years ago I visited a physician due to lower back pain, and the doctor diagnosed me with a fracture of the lamina at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae. Recently, during a follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned tha...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. If there is a spondylolysis with accompanying lumbar spondylolisthesis, it will not heal on its own. If you feel your symptoms are manageable, then coexist peacefully with it. However, if your symptoms are bothersome and you want a definitive solution, then consider sur...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spondylolisthesis and Surgical Options
Is Penetrating Bone Screws a Standard Treatment for L5-S1 Issues?
Lumbar vertebral screw penetration? I have a L5-S1 vertebral arch dissociation, but the intervertebral disc is normal, and I have osteoporosis with a T-score of -2.6. After a medical diagnosis, the doctor performed a minimally invasive cortical bone screw fixation at L5-S1. Post-...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. It is true that some physicians may consider the patient's condition or their medical habits, which could lead to the screws penetrating the vertebrae. 2. Your postoperative symptoms may not necessarily be related to the screws penetrating the vertebrae. 3. We have...[Read More] Is Penetrating Bone Screws a Standard Treatment for L5-S1 Issues?
Understanding Prolonged Recovery After Spinal Fusion Surgery: Key Insights
During the follow-up examination, the doctor said that the bone has not yet formed, and I need to continue wearing the brace. It has been almost a year? Due to a grade 4.5 spondylolisthesis, I underwent minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery. I had two surgeries on February 3 a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. According to what you mentioned: <...it's just been a year, is this normal, doctor?...> Generally, bone healing for young individuals should take about 3 months. However, you have undergone three surgeries. The pathway for the steel nails may have caused stru...[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Recovery After Spinal Fusion Surgery: Key Insights