Post-Car Accident Numbness: When to See a Doctor?
Numbness in the legs after a car accident? Hello doctor, I was in a car accident at the end of November, and my head hit something, causing bleeding. The wound has healed, but it sometimes itches. Currently, I don't have any major issues, but recently I've started exper...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, there are many reasons for numbness in the legs. If you have been experiencing numbness for more than two weeks, it is advisable to see a doctor. You may want to consult a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Ne...[Read More] Post-Car Accident Numbness: When to See a Doctor?
Understanding Spinal Fixation Screw Breakage: Challenges and Solutions
Lumbar spine fixation device fracture? Hello Dr. Lai, last year I experienced a vertebral slip due to L5-S1 spondylolysis, which caused nerve compression and resulted in numbness and tingling in my right lower extremity. After undergoing my first decompression and fixation surger...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: According to what you mentioned, L5-S1 spondylolysis has led to spondylolisthesis... Upon follow-up, it was found that both screws at S1 have broken in half... We will wait for the bone fusion to complete before determining the next steps... However, I do not have any neur...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Fixation Screw Breakage: Challenges and Solutions
Headache After Motorcycle Accident: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Headache after a car accident? I was hit by a motorcycle from the left while crossing the street. I don't remember if I flew up; in an instant, I have no recollection of the moment of impact, only the memory of lying on the ground. At that moment, I wanted to get up but wasn...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, your symptoms are similar to those of a head injury or concussion. It is recommended that you visit a nearby neurosurgery outpatient clinic for evaluation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine Neurosurgery Department, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Headache After Motorcycle Accident: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Choosing Surgery for Cervical Disc Herniation: Risks and Alternatives
Options for Cervical Disc Rupture Surgery My mother is 56 years old and has been experiencing severe pain in her neck and arms, requiring steroid injections for pain relief. After an MRI, the doctor diagnosed her with a herniated disc at the C3-C4 level and a slipped disc at the ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, I infer that 1. it may increase wear on adjacent segments, referred to as adjacent segment disease. To overcome this, it would be necessary to replace the fixed PEEK cage with a mobile artificial disc, although this option is more expensive. 2. G...[Read More] Choosing Surgery for Cervical Disc Herniation: Risks and Alternatives
Head Injury After Car Accident: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
I was in a car accident and hit my head; I'm not sure if I'm okay? Hello, I was in a car accident last Tuesday and hit my head. The swelling has gone down now, but it still hurts a little when I press on it. I'm not sure if there might be any issues.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, if there is no loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting, there is generally no major issue; it may just be a scalp contusion. However, please seek evaluation at a nearby neurosurgery outpatient clinic. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Changhua Hospital...[Read More] Head Injury After Car Accident: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Is It Sciatica? Understanding Your Pain and Symptoms
Is it sciatica? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a pain I have. One day, while lifting something, I felt a point of pain in the area above my left buttock and below my waist. It’s not too bad when I walk, but sitting for a long time makes it uncomfortable and causes a ting...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Based on your description, it is suspected that there may be wear and tear or deformation of the lumbar intervertebral disc, which could be compressing the nerves, leading to the symptoms of sciatica that you described. Generally, at your age, X-rays can only visualize bones; sof...[Read More] Is It Sciatica? Understanding Your Pain and Symptoms
Understanding Brachial Plexus Surgery: Recovery and Rehabilitation Insights
Brachial plexus reconstruction surgery Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. I had a car accident on September 28, where I skidded in the rain and crashed into a utility pole, resulting in multiple fractures. I am currently recovering, but I am particularly concerned abo...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, you have already undergone surgery by Dr. Chuang, so you should follow his medical advice. Any concerns should be discussed with the surgical team, especially since you have just had reconstructive surgery. Recovery takes time, so please trust that the physician who perfor...[Read More] Understanding Brachial Plexus Surgery: Recovery and Rehabilitation Insights
Understanding Ulnar Nerve Surgery: Treatment, Recovery, and Recurrence
Ulnar nerve surgery The treatment for ulnar nerve surgery involves several steps. The procedure is typically performed to relieve compression of the ulnar nerve, often at the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome) or wrist (Guyon's canal syndrome). During the surgery, the surgeon...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, ulnar nerve surgery is typically performed at the elbow to relieve the compressed nerve. This procedure is generally not difficult and should be performed by a specialized physician. If this issue is confirmed, please discuss it with your scheduled surgeon through online i...[Read More] Understanding Ulnar Nerve Surgery: Treatment, Recovery, and Recurrence
Understanding Surgical Options for Persistent Disc Herniation Pain
If physical therapy and manual therapy do not improve a herniated disc, is surgery necessary? Hello, Doctor: I usually exercise very little, but from January to the end of February 2014, I underwent intensive training in running. Suddenly, in early March 2014, I experienced sever...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your symptoms, if the MRI has confirmed a herniated disc compressing the nerve, causing sciatica and significantly affecting your daily life, and conservative rehabilitation has been ineffective, it may be time to consider surgery. 1. You mentioned a minimally i...[Read More] Understanding Surgical Options for Persistent Disc Herniation Pain
Persistent Pain After Spine Surgery: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
After spinal disc surgery, if you are still experiencing pain and are unsure which hospital can help address this pain, it is advisable to consult with a pain management specialist or a neurosurgeon. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, there are several questions to consider: What is the patient's age and gender? What symptoms did you have before the surgery? What symptoms do you have after the surgery? Is there back pain or lower limb pain? Which area is painful? What type of surgery was performed?...[Read More] Persistent Pain After Spine Surgery: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Post-Microdiscectomy: Understanding Leg Weakness and Numbness
Postoperative care after minimally invasive spine surgery? My family member underwent minimally invasive spine surgery at the end of September and has been experiencing difficulty applying pressure to the legs, along with feelings of soreness and numbness. The pain is intermitten...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, after surgery, it is common to experience soreness, weakness, and numbness for the first 2-3 months. However, if there is noticeable atrophy in the right leg, it is advisable to return for a follow-up consultation with the original surgeon for further evaluation. If a reas...[Read More] Post-Microdiscectomy: Understanding Leg Weakness and Numbness
Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness: Understanding Recovery After Disc Surgery
Experiencing pain again four days after spinal disc surgery? I was diagnosed with an L5-S1 herniated disc three months ago and underwent minimally invasive surgery a few days ago to remove the herniation. After the surgery, aside from pain at the incision site, I also experienced...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, my personal speculation is that when your doctor mentioned the anesthesia losing its effect, they were likely referring to the patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) that was stopped three days post-surgery. Additionally, the symptoms you described could have many potential ca...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness: Understanding Recovery After Disc Surgery
Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Coccydynia (pain in the coccygeal region) Hello Doctor: Last year, while riding a stationary bike, I developed pain in the coccygeal area (the end of the spinal cord between the buttocks) due to poor posture. At the beginning of this year, I went to Yadong Hospital's Orthope...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, generally speaking, coccyx pain in young individuals is often related to injury in that area, as it is considered the "degenerate tail" of humans. Oral medications may not be effective, especially if there is an injury, making it difficult to heal with just oral ...[Read More] Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Is Hip Clicking Related to Lumbar Disc Herniation Symptoms?
Is there a relationship between herniated discs and the popping sound in the hip joint? Hello, I went to a major hospital for an examination because my foot was experiencing numbness and tingling. The result was a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level. However, since I have to comple...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Based on your description, if there is a popping sound when the hip or pelvis rotates, it is generally considered to be a friction sound from the intra-articular tissues. However, it could also be due to other issues. I recommend seeking a nearby physician for evaluation. ...[Read More] Is Hip Clicking Related to Lumbar Disc Herniation Symptoms?
Post-Operative Challenges After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery
Postoperative Care After Endoscopic Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery Hello Dr. Lai, I am experiencing numbness in my right leg, cramping in my calf, and pain in my lower back due to a herniated disc. I am unable to walk for more than three minutes (examinations revealed a herniati...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, your condition seems quite serious (initially severe pain in the right lower limb, which improved post-surgery, but has now changed to severe lower back pain). I recommend that you first consult with the original surgeon to address your concerns....[Read More] Post-Operative Challenges After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery
Understanding Toe Pain and Cervical Bone Spurs: Causes and Treatments
Toe pain, cervical spine osteophytes? Hello. My ten toes have been painful for two months, initially swollen and painful. The doctor prescribed medication for neuropathic pain. I underwent blood tests, and my immune system showed no issues. An EMG test was also normal. Later, I e...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, if you initially experienced discomfort in your feet and then developed numbness in your upper limbs, along with cervical MRI showing nerve compression, this could explain the symptoms (cervical issues typically present with upper limb symptoms, ...[Read More] Understanding Toe Pain and Cervical Bone Spurs: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Finger Joint Pain: Causes and Solutions for Weak Grip
Numbness, tingling, and tightness in the finger joints, making it difficult to make a fist? Hello, Dr. Lai. My weight is about 70 kg and my height is 160 cm. I usually have quite a bit of strength, but recently I have been unable to make a fist with my left hand, especially with ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description of discomfort in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th fingers, we will first consider the following possibilities: ulnar nerve neuropathy, cervical nerve issues, or perhaps finger joint arthritis or tendinitis. All of these could be potential causes. A personal ...[Read More] Understanding Finger Joint Pain: Causes and Solutions for Weak Grip
Post-Car Accident: Morning Shoulder, Neck, and Back Pain Solutions
After the car accident, I woke up in the morning with soreness in my shoulders, neck, and lower back? Hello, doctor. I was in a car accident on January 27 of this year. My external injuries have healed, but I am experiencing residual symptoms. Every morning when I wake up, my sho...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, based on your description, I cannot provide a definitive answer to your question. I recommend that you visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed examination, after which I will be able to provide a more comprehensive response to your concerns. Please discuss the specifics...[Read More] Post-Car Accident: Morning Shoulder, Neck, and Back Pain Solutions
Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Sharp pain in the bones from the lumbar spine to the sacral area? Hello, Dr. Lai: For the past two weeks, I've been experiencing soreness in my lower back and buttocks. If I sit for too long, the pain intensifies, especially when sitting and putting pressure near the groin a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, thank you for your patience. Generally speaking, pain from the lower back to the buttocks can occur, especially after prolonged sitting. We should consider the possibility of lumbar disc herniation or sciatic nerve compression. If an MRI shows no significant nerve compress...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Managing Spinal Instability: Treatment Options for Complex Cases
How should instability of the 4th and 5th vertebrae be treated? Hello Doctor, I suffered a spinal injury in a car accident around 1996, which was not treated at the time. This has now led to accelerated degeneration and severe complications (spinal instability, bone spurs, and s...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello Miss Xiao Lin, based on your description, it seems you have done a lot of research. It is confirmed that you have instability due to spondylolisthesis. Just imagine, your spinal nerves are living in a house made of lumbar vertebrae that is shaking all the time; can you endu...[Read More] Managing Spinal Instability: Treatment Options for Complex Cases