Understanding Nerve Damage from Tumor Compression in Bone Cancer
Tumor compression of nerves leads to nerve damage? I have bone cancer, and the tumor is located in my right pelvic area, pressing on the nerves, which has caused loss of sensation in the back half of my thigh, the outer side of my calf, and the sole of my foot (the left side of m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: As you mentioned: <Bone cancer tumor located in the right pelvic area compressing the nerves,.....> 1. Which nerves are affected? A: It depends on the findings from your imaging studies regarding the nerve compression. 2. If there is indeed a tumor causing compressio...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Damage from Tumor Compression in Bone Cancer
Understanding Uncommon Symptoms of L4-L5 Herniated Disc: Is Surgery Necessary?
Lumbar disc herniation I underwent an MRI, which confirmed that I have an L4-L5 herniated disc. The neurosurgeons all recommend surgery, but what's peculiar is that I can stand for long periods and walk without discomfort. When sitting, I experience slight discomfort in my b...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is true that most people feel more uncomfortable when getting out of bed, but there are also cases where lying down is even more uncomfortable. This is related to the relationship between your herniated disc and the surrounding nerve structures, as well as the relative ...[Read More] Understanding Uncommon Symptoms of L4-L5 Herniated Disc: Is Surgery Necessary?
Can I Skip This Medication? Understanding Side Effects and Alternatives
Is there a medication that I can skip taking? Director, thank you for your kind explanation; I understand. I didn't bring any family members with me for this follow-up appointment. You advised me to start rehabilitation, and I have my first session scheduled for May 5th. I a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Nicametate is a peripheral vasodilator. If it causes you any discomfort, you may discontinue the medication. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Director Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine Surgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Can I Skip This Medication? Understanding Side Effects and Alternatives
Why Is There Still Hydrocephalus Despite Clear Drainage?
Why is there still water accumulation despite unobstructed drainage? Hello Dr. Lai, my child was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at just over two months old and underwent a third ventriculostomy. Due to poor results, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed when my child turned one y...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. Although a ventriculoperitoneal shunt has been placed and the drainage tube is patent, the drainage system has pressure and flow valves that determine how much cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is to be drained. Therefore, it may be an issue of coordination between the drainage...[Read More] Why Is There Still Hydrocephalus Despite Clear Drainage?
Understanding Back Pain: Possible Nerve Compression After Injury
Back injury? Two years ago, I was involved in a car accident and did not receive immediate treatment. Now, I am experiencing pain that is located just below my left shoulder near the spine. It feels like muscle is compressing a nerve, and the pain persists whether I am walking, s...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, what could be the reason for this? It could involve the nerves, muscles, bones, or soft tissues. Please seek medical attention nearby, as only a physician can make a proper assessment after examination. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Changhua Hospital[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: Possible Nerve Compression After Injury
Will Ulnar Nerve Recovery Occur After Anterior Transposition?
Will the ulnar nerve recover? Mild ulnar nerve injury has undergone anterior transposition. Will it recover over time?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Please consult the original surgeon.[Read More] Will Ulnar Nerve Recovery Occur After Anterior Transposition?
Relieving Lower Back Pain: Tips for Managing Sciatica Symptoms
Pain in the lower back, around the lumbar region? Hello, doctor. My symptoms originally included pain in the right lower back, which has gradually radiated down to my thigh. I have a slight pelvic tilt causing a leg length discrepancy. Is there any way to relieve this? It is curr...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
It may be a lumbar spine issue causing sciatica. Although you have an upcoming exam, it is still recommended to seek a nearby neurosurgeon for an evaluation.[Read More] Relieving Lower Back Pain: Tips for Managing Sciatica Symptoms
Understanding Unexplained Numbness and Tingling in the Lower Body
Strange sourness and numbness? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you something. Since my first year of college, I have occasionally experienced a discomfort that starts from my lower back, radiating down to my buttocks, and then to the back of my thighs and calves. It feels some...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, your sciatica may be caused by lumbar spine issues. I recommend seeing a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Director of Spinal Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Numbness and Tingling in the Lower Body
Could a Past Head Injury Be Causing My Memory and Focus Issues?
Previous head trauma, sequelae? Hello, doctor. When I was in the third year of junior high, I fell from a height of about 200 centimeters and landed directly on my head without any support from my hands. I did not sustain any external injuries, so I did not see a doctor. However,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
It's not certain; since this has been an issue for over a decade, it's still advisable to seek medical attention. Consider consulting a neurologist or a neurosurgeon.[Read More] Could a Past Head Injury Be Causing My Memory and Focus Issues?
Understanding Recurrent Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Risks
Herniated disc 1 Hello, I had surgery for a herniated disc between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae on January 12, 2016. I felt that my recovery was quite good after the surgery. After resting at home for a month, I returned to work, but not long after, I experienced pain an...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
If there is a recurrence, and it is more than before... 1. Rehabilitation generally only helps to manage pain and does not provide a fundamental cure. 2. It is still recommended to consider surgery again. 3. However, this time you need to consider the possibility of an artificial...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Risks
Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Back pain I have been experiencing severe pain in the upper left part of my back (about five centimeters below the shoulder) for the past couple of days. It hurts a little when I breathe, and the pain intensifies with movement. Even lying flat or on my side is extremely painful, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it could possibly be a cervical or thoracic spine issue, a myofascial problem, or it may involve the thoracic and abdominal organs. It is advisable to first consult with an internal medicine specialist, specifically in pulmonary medicine or gastroenterology. If internal or...[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding the Need for Central Catheters in Spine Surgery
Spinal surgery Hello: Last month, my aunt was hospitalized for spinal surgery. I found it strange that the regular IV line couldn't be used and that a central catheter had to be specifically installed, as the doctor mentioned.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it may be that your aunt's vascular condition makes it difficult to administer a regular IV. If there are symptoms that require it, a central venous catheter may be used for easier infusion. If you have any medical questions, it is advisable to ask the original treatm...[Read More] Understanding the Need for Central Catheters in Spine Surgery
Understanding Back and Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Back and lower back pain? The pain is generally located in the area of the kidneys in the lower back, and it hurts when pressed. When the pain is severe, changing positions can cause cramping-like pain. Usually, the pain only occurs with pressure and has persisted for about five ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it is recommended to consult a physician to evaluate whether a CT scan or MRI is necessary for a detailed diagnosis. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Director Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Back and Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Post-Surgery Numbness in Hand: Is It Normal After Cervical Surgery?
After cervical spine surgery, experiencing numbness in the hand can be considered a normal occurrence? Hello, my wife is 40 years old. She recently went to the hospital due to numbness in her left arm, and an MRI revealed that she has herniated discs at the C5/C6 and C6/C7 levels...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it is recommended to consult your surgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Post-Surgery Numbness in Hand: Is It Normal After Cervical Surgery?
Understanding Lower Back Pain and Hip Discomfort: Causes and Treatments
Lower back pain with buttock soreness? Hello, doctor! A few months ago, while lifting heavy objects, I suspect I may have strained my lower back (I heard a popping sound at that moment). Although I did not experience any obvious pain symptoms afterward, I have been feeling sorene...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, if general medication rehabilitation treatment is ineffective, it may be due to a lumbar disc issue. You might consider arranging for an MRI to evaluate the condition. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain and Hip Discomfort: Causes and Treatments
Post-Surgery Complications: Challenges in Walking and Sitting After L5-S1 Support Frame Surgery
After the insertion of a support frame at L5 and S1, the patient is unable to sit or walk? Hello, doctor. My mother underwent a spinal fusion surgery between L3 and L5 two years ago. After the surgery, she still felt numbness and soreness in her left leg while walking, and she wa...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, it is recommended that you consult your surgeon. If you do not receive a satisfactory response, you may consider seeking a second opinion from another physician. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Director Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications: Challenges in Walking and Sitting After L5-S1 Support Frame Surgery
Understanding L1-L2 Disc Herniation and Surgical Options for Nerve Compression
Herniated discs at the L1 and L2 levels are compressing the nerves? Hello, Doctor: I am 45 years old. I started experiencing pain near the left sciatic area in April 2015. Initially, I thought it was a sports injury causing a muscle strain. After about two months of treatment wit...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, it seems you have lumbar nerve compression. Since L1-L2 is a higher level nerve, there are potential risks associated with surgery, and it is recommended that you have an experienced neurosurgeon perform the procedure. Regarding your description ...[Read More] Understanding L1-L2 Disc Herniation and Surgical Options for Nerve Compression
Understanding Post-Surgery Pain: Is It Sciatica or Something Else?
The area around the incision from my previous lumbar spine surgery is painful again? Hello Doctor, I had surgery in June 2011 at a hospital in the northern region, where they implanted a cage and screws at the L5-S1 intervertebral disc. Although I often experience soreness, for t...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, these symptoms resemble sciatica. It would be advisable to further investigate the lumbar spine or other components of the nervous system. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of the Spine and Nerve Surgery Department, Changhua...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Pain: Is It Sciatica or Something Else?
Understanding Calf Pain: Causes and Treatment Options for Seniors
Calf pain Hello Dr. Lai: My mother-in-law often experiences pain in her calves, which worsens when she walks, requiring her to take breaks before she can continue. As a result, she cannot walk far. During these episodes, the doctor has only prescribed painkillers without determin...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, this symptom is referred to as "intermittent claudication." It is generally classified into vascular and neurogenic types. If vascular causes are ruled out, it may be neurogenic intermittent claudication, which is commonly associated wi...[Read More] Understanding Calf Pain: Causes and Treatment Options for Seniors
Recovery Time for Right Elbow Nerve Damage: What to Expect
Nervous System How long does it take for nerve damage in the right elbow to heal?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, the extent of your injury varies, and so does the recovery time. Please consult with your original diagnosing physician. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Changhua Hospital[Read More] Recovery Time for Right Elbow Nerve Damage: What to Expect