Understanding Left Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Left rib pain? Hello doctor, for the past three months, whenever I feel very cold (the kind that gives me goosebumps), I experience sharp pain in the left side of my rib cage, very close to the heart. Everything feels tense, and I'm unsure if it's heart pain, but the pa...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. It is suspected that you have poor blood circulation. When the temperature drops, it can lead to further deterioration of blood circulation, causing your left rib area and chest to feel cold and exhibit symptoms. 2. It is recommended that you first consult a cardiologis...[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Numbness in Your Big Toe After Injury: What to Know
Hello, Director Lai? I have recently been experiencing numbness in my right big toe for almost a week. Initially, I thought it was due to riding my road bike while wearing stiff-soled shoes and pulling the straps too tightly. The numbness in my left foot has resolved, but the rig...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello, if you have a toe contusion without skin breakage or infection, no skeletal injury, and it does not affect your mobility, it is generally a soft tissue injury. Ice therapy for three days prior to the incident is recommended, and it usually improves within two weeks. During...[Read More] Understanding Numbness in Your Big Toe After Injury: What to Know
Understanding Cervical Spine Issues and Their Impact on Tinnitus
Cervical spine-related issues Hello, doctor. In very quiet places, I experience tinnitus, and if I bend my head down for too long, it also triggers the tinnitus. Changing my position helps improve the symptoms. Previously, I visited a rehabilitation clinic and had X-rays taken, w...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is recommended to postpone cervical traction. Further examination of the cervical spine can be arranged, such as dynamic X-rays of the cervical spine, MRI, or carotid ultrasound. You may consult with a neurosurgeon, neurologist, or rehabilitation specialist. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Issues and Their Impact on Tinnitus
Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: To Operate or Not?
Cervical intervertebral disc herniation..? Hello Dr. Lai: I visited for arm numbness and pain last November, and it was found that I have a herniated disc at the C5 and C6 vertebrae. At that time, I underwent traction therapy and acupuncture, which helped a bit, but I did not ful...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Whether to perform surgery for cervical disc herniation compressing the nerves depends on: 1. The urgency of the situation, such as if there is already paralysis or weakness; 2. The effectiveness of conservative treatments, such as medications and physical therapy; if thes...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: To Operate or Not?
Managing Sciatica: Effective Strategies for Herniated Discs
Herniated disc In February 2021, I suffered an exercise-related injury that resulted in spinal damage and temporary paralysis of my lower body. I did not undergo surgery but received steroid treatment. After a year of rehabilitation, I returned to my administrative job. Recently,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected that you have a lumbar disc herniation causing nerve compression, which leads to sciatica. The general treatment primarily involves conservative measures such as medication, rehabilitation, and exercises to stretch the lower back. If there is no improvement...[Read More] Managing Sciatica: Effective Strategies for Herniated Discs
Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Sciatica I have been suffering from lower back pain for at least two years without seeing a doctor. The pain comes and goes, and when I turn over in bed, I experience sharp pain from my lower back to my buttocks and thighs. Sometimes the pain is so severe that I am afraid to move...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: The symptoms suggest sciatica, which is usually caused by lumbar spondylolisthesis or herniated discs that compress the nerves. However, to confirm the diagnosis, X-rays combined with MRI are needed. Considering that you are 30 weeks pregnant, it is generally recommended f...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Causes of Numbness and Tingling in the Heels: When to Seek Help
Tingling and prickling sensations in the heel? Recently, after sitting for about an hour, my heels start to feel numb and tingly. I also experience this numbness and tingling in my feet while sleeping, which wakes me up. What could be the possible causes, and which specialty shou...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: The possible diagnoses are 1. plantar fasciitis or 2. lumbar radiculopathy extending to the heel, or 3. other conditions. You may consult 1. neurosurgery, 2. orthopedics, or 3. rehabilitation medicine for further evaluation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Dr. Lai Chao-K...[Read More] Causes of Numbness and Tingling in the Heels: When to Seek Help
Visiting a Neurosurgery Clinic: What You Need to Know
Inquiry about the issue? Hello Dr. Lai: Recently, I had something on my mind and thought about visiting your clinic. Since it has been a long time since I last visited Changhua Hospital, I am unsure about the current regulations at the hospital. For example, do I need to present ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: After September 1st, the government has relaxed the regulations for entering and exiting hospitals. I apologize for the delayed response; I have been busy with work and just found time to check my inbox today. Wishing you health and safety. Best regards, Dr. Lai.[Read More] Visiting a Neurosurgery Clinic: What You Need to Know
Risks of Early Ear Stone Repositioning After C5-C6 Disc Surgery
C5-C6 artificial disc replacement and otolith repositioning procedure? Hello, Doctor. At the end of last month, I underwent cervical spine surgery at the C5-C6 level due to bone spurs and a herniated disc, and I had an artificial disc implanted. This month, I had a canalith repos...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If the procedure is performed gently and with a protective neck collar, it is still feasible to treat the condition of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) by professional medical staff. Please continue to follow up! Wishing you health and safety. By Dr. Lai Chao-Ka...[Read More] Risks of Early Ear Stone Repositioning After C5-C6 Disc Surgery
Post-Operative Care for Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
Postoperative Care for Artificial Disc Replacement How many days do patients typically need to stay in the hospital after artificial disc replacement surgery? What precautions should be taken in daily life after discharge? How long after discharge can patients drive to work?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Generally, the postoperative hospital stay is 2 to 3 days, focusing on wound care. The key point in postoperative care is to ensure that the cervical collar is worn properly. There are not many restrictions on daily activities. I usually advise patients that if the wound i...[Read More] Post-Operative Care for Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
Post-Spinal Surgery: Understanding Right Leg Pain and Recovery Challenges
Post-operative pain in the right leg after spinal surgery? Hello Doctor: I am consulting on behalf of my mother. She underwent surgery on July 26 for spondylolisthesis at levels L2, L3, and L4. Before the surgery, she experienced significant pain in her left leg and lower back, w...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: You have right-sided sciatica. Please consult with your original surgeon, as it may be due to inflammation combined with blood or blood clots causing irritation, or it could be due to other reasons. If medication treatment is ineffective and X-ray results are normal, pleas...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Understanding Right Leg Pain and Recovery Challenges
Understanding Foot Pain and Numbness: Could a Herniated Disc Be the Cause?
Only experiencing numbness in the soles of the feet and a tingling sensation in the lower limbs? Hello, doctor. Since November 2021, I have experienced sudden pain and numbness in the left sole of my foot while playing basketball. After a month, the right foot also started to fee...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Cervical spinal cord lesions presenting solely with foot symptoms are rare, but they can occur. It is recommended that if you 1. experience severe and intolerable symptoms, or 2. have significant neural compression evident on MRI that can explain your condition, you may co...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain and Numbness: Could a Herniated Disc Be the Cause?
Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain: Seeking Answers for Lasting Relief
Daily Disturbances I have been experiencing persistent pain from my neck to my shoulders, and sometimes it even extends to my fingers, causing numbness. Recently, this pain has spread to my deltoid area. When I press on the side of my cervical spine and then release, I feel a str...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: It is suspected to be cervical spine degeneration, commonly cervical disc herniation, which compresses the nerves. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon and undergo X-rays, or even an MRI, to assess the condition. Best wishes from Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the S...[Read More] Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain: Seeking Answers for Lasting Relief
Understanding Foot Pain and Numbness: Is Cervical Disc Herniation the Cause?
Only experiencing numbness in the soles of the feet and a tingling sensation in the lower limbs? Hello Doctor. Since November 2021, I have experienced sudden pain and numbness in the left sole of my foot while playing basketball. After a month, the right foot also began to feel s...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Cervical spinal cord lesions presenting solely with foot symptoms are rare, but they can occur. It is recommended that if you 1. experience severe and intolerable symptoms, and 2. MRI imaging shows significant neural compression that can explain your condition, you may con...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain and Numbness: Is Cervical Disc Herniation the Cause?
Post-Surgery Arm Pain After Cervical Disc Replacement: What to Do?
Postoperative arm pain after cervical spine surgery? After undergoing C5-C6 and C6-C7 disc replacement surgery (artificial disc replacement) last December, the original numbness symptoms have resolved, but there is persistent soreness in the left arm, particularly in the upper ar...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Please consult the original surgeon to determine if rehabilitation or pain management treatment is necessary. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery.[Read More] Post-Surgery Arm Pain After Cervical Disc Replacement: What to Do?
Neck Pain and Tinnitus: Understanding Their Connection and Treatment Options
Cervical spine issues I currently have chest pain and tinnitus in my left ear. I consulted a cardiologist who performed tests and confirmed that my heart is fine. I also visited an otolaryngologist regarding the tinnitus, and they found no issues. However, both problems persist w...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Please consult with a <Neurosurgery> specialist to evaluate whether it is cervical-related chest pain. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgeon.[Read More] Neck Pain and Tinnitus: Understanding Their Connection and Treatment Options
Managing Sciatica During Pregnancy: Understanding Disc Herniation Risks
Herniated disc compressing nerves at 18 weeks of pregnancy? Hello Doctor, I am currently 18 weeks pregnant and experiencing severe pain when walking or sitting. I have sharp, shooting pain and numbness from my left hip down to my calf, and I am limping with a misaligned posture d...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: If you suddenly experience weakness and soreness in your thigh and knee, this symptom may indicate a more serious condition. Since lumbar spine surgery requires X-rays, there is a risk of fetal radiation exposure. Generally, expectant mothers are encouraged to endure the d...[Read More] Managing Sciatica During Pregnancy: Understanding Disc Herniation Risks
Understanding Facial and Head Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options
Numbness and swelling in the head and face? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing numbness and swelling in my head and face every day for over ten years. Last year, I went to Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital for a neurological examination of my head and facial nerves, and the...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Your symptoms require an evaluation of intracranial lesions and facial nerve disorders... Additionally, a detailed investigation of the cervical spine nerves may be necessary. Based on your description [...lying semi-reclined on the bed with your head turned to the right w...[Read More] Understanding Facial and Head Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options
Post-Surgery Complications of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Patient's Journey
Abnormal Conditions After Surgery for Intervertebral Disc Stenosis and Herniation Hello Doctor, I would like to consult you regarding my condition. I have been diagnosed with L4-L5 disc stenosis and L5-S1 disc herniation. On February 10th of this year, I underwent endoscopic deco...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello Xiaowen: Physical therapy can be implemented. However, you have already undergone two surgeries by other doctors, and the situation is more complex. The second surgery was 1.5 months ago. It is advisable to have a physician evaluate whether an MRI follow-up is necessary. Be...[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Patient's Journey
Effective Treatment Options for Sciatica and Spinal Stenosis
Sciatica Hello, doctor. My father previously had surgery for spinal bone spurs (with a spacer inserted), but now the bone spurs have recurred. He has undergone an MRI, and I would like to ask what treatment options are currently available, or what surgical methods there are. Than...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery
Hello: 1. We need to review the new MRI and X-rays to understand the current relative condition of the vertebrae in order to provide a more accurate response. 2. It may be necessary to remove the bone spurs again, decompress the area, and implant new spacers or stents, or perform...[Read More] Effective Treatment Options for Sciatica and Spinal Stenosis