Post-Operative Recovery Insights After Endoscopic Disc Surgery
Postoperative care following endoscopic spinal disc surgery? Hello, after the Dragon Boat Festival this year, I experienced severe pain and swelling in my hip and thigh. An MRI revealed a herniated disc at the L5-S1 level, which was compressing the nerve. I underwent endoscopic d...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, since you have completed the surgery at Youmin Hospital, you should consult the original surgeon regarding the postoperative issues. Wishing you a speedy recovery![Read More] Post-Operative Recovery Insights After Endoscopic Disc Surgery
Understanding Disc Herniation: Addressing Weakness and Numbness in Legs
I would like to inquire about issues related to herniated discs and leg weakness? A few years ago, I experienced back numbness and went to a large hospital where I was diagnosed with a herniated disc. The doctor advised me to be cautious during daily activities and to undergo reh...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, you may be experiencing issues related to lumbar spine and sciatica, but it could also be other problems. It is advisable to seek a personal evaluation from a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospit...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Addressing Weakness and Numbness in Legs
Understanding Neck Pain and Numbness: When to See a Specialist
Numbness and tingling in the neck? Hello Dr. Lai, I have intermittent tingling and numbness in the left side of my neck, behind my ear, and at the back of my head. Sometimes my neck feels stiff and numb, but it tends to be less numb when I lie down. Could these symptoms be relate...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it could be a cervical spine issue or another problem. It is advisable to seek medical attention. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain and Numbness: When to See a Specialist
How to Assess Past Spinal Injuries: Tests to Alleviate Your Concerns
What tests can I undergo to alleviate my concerns about a previous spinal injury? Hello, Doctor. I have a question I would like to ask you. Many years ago, when I was a child (I don't remember the exact time, perhaps around ten years ago), I was standing on a chair, and the ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, to assess the situation, you can start with a basic X-ray. However, for advanced evaluation, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be necessary, although it might not meet the criteria for insurance coverage. Every injury leaves a trace, but after so many years, it shoul...[Read More] How to Assess Past Spinal Injuries: Tests to Alleviate Your Concerns
Understanding Sacral Fractures: Recovery Time and Related Back Pain
Sacral fracture It has been almost three months since I fell while walking up the stairs in April, and I still haven't recovered. Sitting for long periods or lying down is very uncomfortable. The area of the sacral fracture is quite painful, and recently my lumbar spine has ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, your condition requires an outpatient evaluation. It's not possible to provide recommendations in just a few sentences. Changhua Hospital cares about you. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Sacral Fractures: Recovery Time and Related Back Pain
Understanding Pain After Vertebral Compression Fracture Treatment
Vertebral compression fracture The mother underwent vertebroplasty two weeks ago, and her discomfort has improved during this time. However, today she started experiencing pain again while turning over. It is unclear what might be causing this. She has been wearing a brace day an...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, if you are experiencing significant pain that has not improved, it is recommended to return to the hospital early for evaluation by your original treating physician. Changhua Hospital cares about you. // Neurosurgery Dr. Lai Chao-Kang[Read More] Understanding Pain After Vertebral Compression Fracture Treatment
Persistent Dizziness After Head Injury: When to See a Neurosurgeon?
Persistent dizziness after a head injury? Hello Dr. Lai, I sustained a head injury while playing basketball at the beginning of April when I went for a rebound. Initially, I did not experience any discomfort, but the next day when I woke up, I started to feel dizzy and nauseous, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, head injuries should prioritize seeing a neurosurgeon for more comprehensive treatment. Your symptoms resemble post-concussion syndrome and may also be associated with inner ear balance issues. It is recommended to consult both a neurosurgeon and an otolaryngologist at Cha...[Read More] Persistent Dizziness After Head Injury: When to See a Neurosurgeon?
Head Injury at Work: Understanding Dizziness and Potential Risks
Head injury at work? Yesterday, while I was working, I accidentally bumped my head against the wall, but it wasn't a very hard impact. There was no external injury, but this afternoon I suddenly felt dizzy. I took a nap, but it didn't improve much. Coincidentally, I am ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, your condition may involve other variables, so I cannot provide a direct answer. I recommend seeing a neurosurgeon for evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about you. // Neurosurgery Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Head Injury at Work: Understanding Dizziness and Potential Risks
Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Herniated disc In 2014, I experienced pain in my lower back, buttocks, and the outer side of my thighs. An MRI revealed degeneration of the intervertebral discs at the L3-L4 levels, which was likely the cause. The doctor recommended physical therapy, but in January 2016, my sympt...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: According to what you mentioned, <...after being referred and researching, you can undergo minimally invasive lumbar disc surgery, which is scheduled for June 3...> Since you have already consulted with other physicians for surgery, you should first ask the original ...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Recovery and Symptoms Explained
Herniated disc In April 2015, an MRI indicated an L4-L5 disc herniation, with the L5 protrusion being approximately 2:1, significantly compressing the nerve. This has caused pain in the outer side of my left thigh and the outer side of my calf. At that time, the doctor suggested ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Based on what you described, your condition needs to be explained from two perspectives: 1. Your <symptoms (and your self-perception)> have improved. Congratulations. 2. However, the herniated disc and nerve compression in your body will not <disappear> due to ...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Recovery and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Neck Strains: When to Seek Medical Advice and Its Effects
Neck sprain? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. I am the person who asked the question 106295. 1. In your response, you mentioned that if there is improvement, there is no need to seek medical attention. Currently, my situation is that I experience slight pain a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello! 1. Improvement is a good thing. However, if you are still worried, it’s best to make an appointment with a doctor nearby! 2. Generally, there is no significant relationship between cervical spine nerves and sexual function. If you have issues with sexual function, you can ...[Read More] Understanding Neck Strains: When to Seek Medical Advice and Its Effects
Managing Mild Concussion Symptoms at Home: What to Expect
Some issues regarding home care for mild concussions? I went to the hospital for a CT scan, and there were no blood clots or anything. However, after taking care of myself at home for two days, I still feel dizzy and nauseous. Is this normal? How long is this likely to last?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
1. If a CT scan shows no intracranial hemorrhage, it is still important to monitor for any deterioration in consciousness, limb weakness, or seizures over the next three days. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately, even at the emergency room. 2. Hea...[Read More] Managing Mild Concussion Symptoms at Home: What to Expect
Chronic Lumbar Pain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Discomfort
Lumbar pain Hello Dr. Lai, I have a job that requires long hours of sitting. After two months of work, I began experiencing pain in my lumbar spine, and it has been over four months now. Since the onset of the pain, I have been undergoing rehabilitation treatment (electrotherapy,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, as you mentioned: "After undergoing an MRI, the doctor said there is degeneration and slight bulging of the intervertebral discs at the L4-L5 levels, but no other issues were found. It is not yet at the stage where surgery is required. The doctor said I can only rely ...[Read More] Chronic Lumbar Pain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Discomfort
Understanding Neck Strain: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Neck sprain? Hello, Doctor. I would like to consult you about something. Two weeks ago, on a Sunday morning, when I just got up, my head was still resting on the pillow, and I propped myself up with my hands and elbows, similar to a horse stance, while my head was against the pil...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Based on what you described, "Currently, when I gently clench my right fist, I experience a slight sensation similar to having just had a cramp (a bit like weakness). My right foot also has this sensation, but it’s not that I can’t exert force; I can still apply stren...[Read More] Understanding Neck Strain: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Managing Disc Herniation: When to Consider Surgery or Alternative Treatments
Herniated disc Hello Dr. Lai: My current symptoms include left lower back pain, weakness in my left leg, and weakness in my toes, which sometimes feel numb. Since I am abroad, the doctors here have recommended physical therapy. I have been undergoing physical therapy for three mo...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Your description seems to indicate a lumbar spine issue causing sciatica. However, a detailed examination is still necessary, such as X-rays and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). 2. If physical therapy focusing on core muscle training is ineffective, you may consider lu...[Read More] Managing Disc Herniation: When to Consider Surgery or Alternative Treatments
Should Spinal Fixation Screws Be Removed After Surgery?
Is it recommended to remove spinal fixation screws? Hello Doctor: My mother has been suffering from spondylolisthesis at the L4-L5 level. Three years ago, she underwent surgery to install a cage and bone graft for stabilization, but her condition has not improved since the operat...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Generally speaking, if the originally implanted fusion cage has successfully fused, the adjacent auxiliary screws can be removed. (For example, in cases of upper and lower limb fractures, if the screws were used for fixation and it is confirmed that the fracture has hea...[Read More] Should Spinal Fixation Screws Be Removed After Surgery?
Post-Vaccine Arm Weakness: Understanding Nerve Pain and Recovery
Weakness in the arm after vaccination? Hello, doctor. I received the cervical cancer vaccine on May 4th of this year, and since then, my left arm has been in pain. It has been almost 20 days, and while the pain has lessened, I still feel discomfort in my arm when performing certa...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, please try applying heat to the affected area more frequently. Engage in some strength exercises for the upper limbs. It is advisable to consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon for evaluation and assessment. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, you can...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Arm Weakness: Understanding Nerve Pain and Recovery
Managing Sciatica: Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Alternative Therapies Explained
Sciatica Hello Doctor, my main symptoms are soreness in the right side of my hip and thigh, with noticeable pain in my buttocks after prolonged sitting. I have undergone electromyography, which indicated pressure on the right L5 and S1 nerves, but my MRI results were normal. I ha...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Your description: "Pain in the right buttock and thigh, with noticeable pain after prolonged sitting. An electromyogram indicated compression of the right L5 and S1 nerves, but the MRI results were normal..." This seems to suggest a lumbar spine issue causin...[Read More] Managing Sciatica: Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Alternative Therapies Explained
Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and Concerns After a Fall
Head issues Hello Doctor: Two years ago, while moving something under the stairs, I accidentally bumped my head against the corner of a steel staircase. At that moment, I saw stars and instinctively rubbed my head for about ten minutes, which alleviated the pain. I did not seek m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. I recommend that you directly consult a nearby neurospecialist. Perhaps an X-ray or a CT scan could provide immediate answers, so you won't have to continue questioning yourself. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms and Concerns After a Fall
Understanding Right Calf Pain and Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions
Swelling and soreness in the right calf? I would like to inquire about my long-term symptoms of occasional swelling and aching in my right calf. Sometimes, to alleviate the discomfort, I elevate my leg, but within 10 seconds, the area below my right ankle becomes pale, while my l...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Your description may indicate vascular circulation issues, possibly combined with neurological or muscular problems. It is recommended that you first consult with a cardiovascular surgeon, and then see a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Di...[Read More] Understanding Right Calf Pain and Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions