Ankle Sprain Recovery: When to Walk Again and Return to Sports
Ankle sprain During practice, I rolled my ankle and went to the clinic where the doctor diagnosed a ligament injury. He said it would take about four weeks to heal. Now, it's been three weeks, and compared to the first day, the swelling has decreased by about 70-80%, and the...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
The recovery speed is generally normal, taking about three months. If there is not much pain, there is no need to return to the hospital. After two to three months, you can consider returning to practice.[Read More] Ankle Sprain Recovery: When to Walk Again and Return to Sports
Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Complications, and Rehabilitation
Patellar comminuted fracture / issues with steel pins? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a comminuted fracture of my right patella. I currently have two steel pins and wires for fixation, and my recovery is going well; I can perfor...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. It depends on how deep the bone screws are embedded; some can be removed. 2. If the fracture is well-aligned after surgery, there are usually few complications. 3. Yes, it is possible to recover after training. 4. You may not need to wear it anymore. 5. Perform leg rai...[Read More] Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Complications, and Rehabilitation
Should You Get an X-Ray After a Fall on Your Elbow?
Fell and hit the elbow on the floor? Hello Doctor: The day before yesterday, I slipped forward in my bathroom and immediately turned to my side, causing my right elbow to impact the ground near the elbow area. I have checked and found no external injuries or bruising, but there i...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If possible, please get an X-ray as soon as possible.[Read More] Should You Get an X-Ray After a Fall on Your Elbow?
Morning Back Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Morning back pain upon waking up? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about a symptom I've been experiencing for the past month. Every morning when I wake up, I have significant back pain, but I can gradually stretch it out, and the pain slowly diminishes. After about 2-3 hour...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
There are many causes of chronic lower back pain, which may include poor posture, overwork, prolonged standing, excessive sitting, or spinal deformities such as herniated discs. It is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Morning Back Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Meniscus Tears and Patellar Ligament Injuries in Knee MRI
Meniscus and patellar ligament? 1. MRI of the left knee without contrast enhancement shows: 1. No definite bony fracture. 2. Increased signal at the medial patellofemoral ligament (se/im: 3/6-8). 3. Increased signal at the lateral patellofemoral ligament (se/im: 3/5-1...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
The medial meniscus of the left knee joint is torn, and it is necessary to consult an orthopedic surgeon to review the imaging and determine whether arthroscopic surgery is needed.[Read More] Understanding Meniscus Tears and Patellar Ligament Injuries in Knee MRI
Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Coccygeal issues Hello, doctor! I've been experiencing pain in my coccyx for about 2 years. In September 2020, I consulted a doctor who mentioned that it seemed like a ligament was strained, but there was no improvement. In October 2021, I went for another consultation and w...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Sometimes, inflammation of the tissues near the coccyx can be treated with medication. If there is no improvement, identifying the pain point and injecting corticosteroids may provide some relief.[Read More] Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Heel Pain: Causes and Solutions for Your Right Foot
Pain in the right heel? Hello Doctor, thank you for patiently reading and answering my questions. Over the past couple of years, whenever I go out and walk a lot on that day, I experience pain in the heel of my right foot. The pain occurs specifically when I am walking, particula...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Switch to soft-soled shoes or add a slight heel cushion to reduce walking time, or walk in segments without prolonged periods to give your feet a chance to rest.[Read More] Understanding Heel Pain: Causes and Solutions for Your Right Foot
Understanding the Link Between Clavicle Deformity and Scoliosis
Clavicle and spinal scoliosis Hello, Doctor: A few years ago, I noticed that my left clavicle is noticeably more prominent. The physician I consulted believed it was caused by scoliosis, and an initial examination did not reveal any significant symptoms. Upon reviewing the X-ray,...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Scoliosis occurring in the thoracic region can lead to a rotational deformity of the spine, which may cause the ribs or clavicles to protrude. There is no need for special attention if the skeletal growth has already stabilized at age 26, as it will not worsen.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Clavicle Deformity and Scoliosis
Understanding Knee Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Knee issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I experienced some pain in the soft tissues around the inner side of my knee joint, but it subsided after a while. Now, I feel a bit of soreness and weakness around the inner joint area of my knee extending to my thigh when walking or sitting....
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It may be caused by inflammation of the medial tendons or muscles. If the pain persists, it is advisable to see an orthopedic specialist.[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Do I Need Crutches Before Knee Surgery for Ligament and Cartilage Injury?
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee? Hello, Doctor: Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions last time. I would like to ask if, with my ligament and cartilage injuries, I will need to undergo arthroscopy to determine the actual condition. Before the...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If there is a ligament tear, it may lead to joint instability, so using a cane while walking can be helpful. Typically, a standard cane is sufficient for this purpose, while the underarm support is referred to as a crutch.[Read More] Do I Need Crutches Before Knee Surgery for Ligament and Cartilage Injury?
Understanding Delayed Healing in Fibula Fractures: Key Questions Answered
Right leg fracture? Hello Doctor, I am currently working in Vietnam and unable to return to Taiwan due to the pandemic. I have some questions I would like to ask you regarding my condition, which is summarized as follows: On September 15, I sustained an injury to the outer side...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. Slow recovery. 2. It will still heal. 3. The cast will be in place for about three months. 4. Just wait for it to heal. 5. No medication is needed.[Read More] Understanding Delayed Healing in Fibula Fractures: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Hip Pain After Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Artificial hip joint Hello, doctor. I had a total hip replacement surgery six years ago, and everything has been fine since then. This month, I've been experiencing mild soreness and pain on the side of my hip. The pain is not constant; it occurs occasionally. I'm unsur...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It is possible that if there are other issues, an X-ray may need to be taken to investigate further.[Read More] Understanding Hip Pain After Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Understanding ACL Injuries: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) Hello, Doctor: I apologize for bothering you. I was in a car accident on August 30 of this year, which resulted in a femur fracture. At the time, I did not feel any pain in my knee. After being discharged on September 6, I suddenly experienced sev...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If a complete tear of the ligament is confirmed through arthroscopy and there is significant laxity in the knee joint, surgery may be necessary. You can consult with a physician at a sports medicine center for further evaluation to determine if surgery is required.[Read More] Understanding ACL Injuries: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Ankle Ligament Injuries: Recovery Tips and Timeline
Ankle ligament injury Hello, Doctor. I slipped and injured the ligaments in my right foot on the morning of December 21. I have been icing and elevating it for three days, and on the third day, I applied kinesiology tape. Although there has been some slight reduction in swelling,...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Typically, ice therapy is sufficient for three days. It is still necessary to elevate the area to prevent swelling. You can use an ankle brace for some protection. It takes about two months for the swelling to subside, and ligament healing requires approximately six weeks.[Read More] Understanding Ankle Ligament Injuries: Recovery Tips and Timeline
Understanding Foot Pain from Prolonged Standing: When to Seek Help
Foot pain from prolonged standing? Hello, doctor. I previously had a job that required prolonged standing and walking. One day, I experienced severe pain in the soles of my feet, as if I were being stabbed with a knife with every step. However, by the next evening, the pain had i...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It could be plantar fasciitis, which often causes pain due to prolonged standing and pressure on the soles of the feet. You may want to consult an orthopedic specialist. In the meantime, you can try using insoles to reduce pressure, minimize standing time, and apply heat to allev...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain from Prolonged Standing: When to Seek Help
Understanding Post-Surgery Hip Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
May I ask the doctor? Hello, doctor. I had hip surgery six years ago and recovered well. Recently, I've been experiencing occasional mild pain on the outer back of the same leg. The pain is not very severe, but I am concerned about the possibility of an infection.
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
You can go to the hospital for an X-ray to check for any issues. If you need to confirm an infection, a blood test for CRP (C-reactive protein) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) may be necessary. Both of these tests are reference indicators related to bacterial infections....[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Hip Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Ulnar Shortening Surgery for Tendonitis Relief
Ulnar shortening surgery The patient currently has calcific tendinitis in the right thumb and wrist, along with pain near the ulnar side of the wrist, and mild discomfort in the left hand as well. An X-ray has confirmed that the right ulnar bone is elongated. Due to work-related ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
The repetitive gripping actions can affect the joint, so it is advisable to reduce these activities to see if there is any improvement. You should ask your doctor whether surgery will alleviate the pain and clarify the expected recovery time, which is approximately three months.[Read More] Understanding Ulnar Shortening Surgery for Tendonitis Relief
Understanding Left Femoral Neck Fractures: Surgery, Recovery, and Pain Management
Left femoral neck fracture? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident on February 2nd of this year, which resulted in a fracture of my left femoral neck. I had three screws inserted. The doctor mentioned that the screws can be removed or left in place, and I would like to know if there...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Femoral neck fractures are typically stabilized with three bone screws, which can usually be removed after more than a year. Leaving the screws in the hip may cause a tingling sensation. Screw removal usually requires about a week of rest.[Read More] Understanding Left Femoral Neck Fractures: Surgery, Recovery, and Pain Management
Morning Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers
Waking up with lower back pain? The individual works in an office and has a sedentary lifestyle with irregular exercise habits. They have been experiencing pain (aching) on both sides of the lower back and in the back for a long time, particularly upon waking (sometimes waking up...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It could be a muscle issue, so you can see an orthopedic specialist. You may also request an X-ray of the lumbar region to check for any other problems.[Read More] Morning Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers
Clavicle Fracture: Non-Surgical Treatment and Healing Time for Young Adults
Clavicle fracture Dear Doctor: I was in a car accident on December 17, which resulted in a fractured clavicle. I am currently leaning towards non-surgical treatment. A few days ago, I showed my X-rays to a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who advised me to use an 8-shaped sho...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If surgery is not performed, it will take about three months for it to heal, but if it does not heal, surgery will be necessary. On the other hand, if immediate surgery is performed, there are benefits such as quicker recovery and faster pain relief. The downside is that it requi...[Read More] Clavicle Fracture: Non-Surgical Treatment and Healing Time for Young Adults