Understanding Recovery Time After a Comminuted Fracture and Fixation Removal
Comminuted fracture Doctor, I had a car accident on May 31 and suffered a comminuted fracture, for which I had an external fixation device placed on my thigh, knee, and ankle. How long will it take to regain normal mobility after the device is removed? The bones have not been hea...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It may take more than six months to regain normal mobility after a comminuted fracture, as the healing process is slower and bone regeneration is not significantly related to the fixation device. If the device is removed before healing is complete, the bone will not heal properly...[Read More] Understanding Recovery Time After a Comminuted Fracture and Fixation Removal
How to Alleviate Foot Numbness After Hip Surgery?
How to improve foot numbness after hip joint surgery? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident on July 16 and underwent hip joint surgery for a comminuted fracture of the left hip joint. I have been doing rehabilitation exercises and leg lifts every day. However, I still experience so...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Numbness in the feet may be related to sciatic nerve issues, and taking active B12 may help improve this condition. Additionally, for calf cramps, pain relievers and muscle relaxants can be taken.[Read More] How to Alleviate Foot Numbness After Hip Surgery?
Understanding Painful Swelling in the Lower Leg: When to Seek Medical Attention
Swelling in the calf? Hello doctor, I have a small swelling on my right calf (about 10 centimeters above the ankle) that is not visibly swollen. It hurts when I press it lightly, and there is some pain in the surrounding area as well. This has been ongoing for three weeks. I have...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It may be more reassuring to see a doctor, especially if there is accompanying redness, swelling, heat, and pain, as this could indicate inflammation.[Read More] Understanding Painful Swelling in the Lower Leg: When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Cervical Disc Issues: Self-Traction Techniques and Tips
Cervical spine issues Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I have an issue with a herniated disc in my cervical spine at the seventh vertebra, which causes pain in my left neck. I have also been experiencing persistent left-sided migraines. Interestingly, physical th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
When performing traction on your own, it is important to ensure that the weight is not too heavy and that the duration of sitting is not too long. The time spent sitting should be similar to what is done in physical therapy, as sitting for too long can have adverse effects.[Read More] Managing Cervical Disc Issues: Self-Traction Techniques and Tips
Morning Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Muscle Weakness?
Unable to bend over upon waking up in the morning? Hello Doctor: I am 39 years old and had minimally invasive surgery for bone spurs on my lumbar spine at L2 or L3 ten years ago. In recent years, I have been experiencing frequent episodes of lumbar strain, and every morning I wak...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Muscle issues may be alleviated with heat therapy, and continuing rehabilitation could lead to improvement. Additionally, muscle relaxants can be taken to help relieve discomfort.[Read More] Morning Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Muscle Weakness?
Post-Surgery Wrist Infection: Symptoms, Concerns, and Recovery Time
Postoperative infection of the wrist? Hello Doctor, I had surgery for a wrist fracture on October 4th, and titanium alloy was used. I was hospitalized for three days. I returned for a follow-up on October 16th, and my recovery was good. The doctor said I could shower and use adhe...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. Timely intervention may prevent osteomyelitis. 2. It is unrelated to adhesive tape. 3. The wound can only be exposed to water after it has healed. 4. The wound usually improves after drainage.[Read More] Post-Surgery Wrist Infection: Symptoms, Concerns, and Recovery Time
Can Intravenous Laser Therapy Aid in Bone Healing After Fractures?
Does intravenous laser therapy help with bone healing? I recently had a car accident that resulted in a comminuted fracture of my femur. I would like to ask the doctor if intravenous laser therapy would be beneficial for the healing of my bone.
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Currently, there is no evidence to confirm its effectiveness.[Read More] Can Intravenous Laser Therapy Aid in Bone Healing After Fractures?
Concerns About Nail Shortening After Left Fourth Toe Fracture
Fracture of the fourth toe on the left foot with the insertion of a metal pin? Hello, doctor. About five weeks ago, I accidentally broke my toe while walking and received treatment at the hospital, where they inserted a pin. I am scheduled to have the pin removed in about a week....
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
To determine if there are any issues with the fracture site, it is best to get an X-ray.[Read More] Concerns About Nail Shortening After Left Fourth Toe Fracture
Common Toe and Finger Deformities: Causes and Treatment Options
Toe problems Overlapping and crowded toes often cause discomfort, and the nails have become prone to ingrown toenails or paronychia. I would also like to inquire about my fingers, which are not straight and have a noticeable lateral curvature. It seems that the first joints of bo...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It is essential to first determine whether there is any displacement before deciding if treatment is necessary; therefore, it is recommended to consult a physician for a clear diagnosis.[Read More] Common Toe and Finger Deformities: Causes and Treatment Options
How to Alleviate Foot Numbness After Hip Surgery?
How to improve foot numbness after hip joint surgery? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident on July 16 and underwent hip joint surgery for a comminuted fracture of the left hip joint. I have been doing rehabilitation exercises and leg lifting exercises every day. However, I still e...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Foot numbness may be due to nerve compression, and taking vitamin B12 may have some effect. For calf cramps, anti-inflammatory pain relievers can be used to improve the condition.[Read More] How to Alleviate Foot Numbness After Hip Surgery?
Understanding Knee Sensations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Knee problems Hello Doctor, Recently, I have suddenly felt a sensation in my left knee while walking, as if there is something (like a bandage or dressing) sticking to my knee. When I touch my knee, it doesn't hurt, but it feels a bit numb. Additionally, I have observed th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
There may be an issue with the patella; it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Knee Sensations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Overcoming Knee Stiffness After Steel Pin Surgery: Tips and Insights
Nail problems Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my knee injury caused by an accident. I currently have metal screws in my knee, and it has been about two to three years since the injury. During this time, I have been able to exercise and walk normally without pain. The onl...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Try rehabilitation to see if the steel pins in the knee joint affect mobility, and then consult the surgeon to inquire if the pins can be removed.[Read More] Overcoming Knee Stiffness After Steel Pin Surgery: Tips and Insights
Understanding Lumbar Compression Fractures: Recovery and Brace Guidance
Vertebral fracture Hello, Doctor! I sustained a "burst fracture of the third lumbar vertebra" due to a car accident. In addition to the fracture, the third lumbar vertebra is compressed by 0.3 cm. Since there was no nerve damage, the attending physician determined that ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. Approximately three to six. 2. You can give it a try. 3. Avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects. 4. You can try climbing, but the most important thing is to visit the outpatient clinic to check if the fracture is healing and whether the vertebral body of the lumbar...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Compression Fractures: Recovery and Brace Guidance
Post-Surgery Challenges: Understanding Recovery After Spinal Fusion
Postoperative care after spinal spondylolisthesis surgery? My mother underwent surgery for lumbar spondylolisthesis, including bone grafting and instrumentation, at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Chiayi on October 3, 2023. After the surgery, she has been unable to walk due to a ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Further examination may be needed to check for any neurological issues. Generally, symptoms should improve or progress after surgery.[Read More] Post-Surgery Challenges: Understanding Recovery After Spinal Fusion
Neck Strain After Minor Accident: Concerns After 3 Weeks of Pain
I have a neck sprain that has lasted for three weeks and hasn't improved. I'm a bit worried? Hello, Dr. Shih. On September 20th of this year, I was involved in a minor collision between two scooters (it wasn't a serious accident, and both parties only sustained min...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. It usually takes about six weeks to recover. 2. If there are any concerns, it's best to get an X-ray.[Read More] Neck Strain After Minor Accident: Concerns After 3 Weeks of Pain
Understanding Non-Displaced Closed Fractures of the Toes: Treatment Options
Non-displaced closed fracture of the toe? Hello, Doctor. I slipped and hit an object, resulting in pain and bruising in the last three toes of my left foot. Four days after the injury, I visited an orthopedic specialist, and X-rays revealed fractures in both the fourth and fifth ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Toe fractures typically heal on their own, and there is no evidence to suggest that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is effective.[Read More] Understanding Non-Displaced Closed Fractures of the Toes: Treatment Options
Can You Still Grow Taller After Growth Plate Closure?
Growth plate issues Once the growth plates are completely closed, it is generally considered that further height increase is not possible. This is based on the understanding of skeletal development and growth plate physiology. However, while it is theoretically possible for some ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. It is impossible to grow taller. 2. There is no opportunity for that.[Read More] Can You Still Grow Taller After Growth Plate Closure?
Can I Perform CPR After Distal Radius Surgery? Recovery Insights
Post-operative care for a radial fracture? Hello, I underwent a distal radius plate removal surgery on August 26. Due to work requirements, I need to obtain my CPR certification before January 10 of next year. I would like to inquire if I am currently able to perform CPR. Additio...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It is generally safer to exert force three months after surgery to minimize potential issues.[Read More] Can I Perform CPR After Distal Radius Surgery? Recovery Insights
Does Bone Necrosis Affect Height Development in Gout Patients?
Does bone necrosis affect height development? Earlier this year, I experienced sudden pain and swelling in my arches and the tops of my feet. When there is no pain, there is slight swelling and discomfort in the posterior part of the arch, especially after standing for long perio...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. Gout does not cause bone necrosis. 2. It does not affect height in the ankle region; however, it can impact height if it occurs in the hip or knee joints.[Read More] Does Bone Necrosis Affect Height Development in Gout Patients?
Effective Treatments for Chronic Pain in the Spine and Joints
Treatment options for chronic pain in the lumbar spine, cervical spine, and knees? I would like to ask about an issue I experienced over six years ago. Due to prolonged sitting, I had severe lower back pain and a tingling, electric shock-like sensation in one leg, which was so in...
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
1. It could be a steroid. 2. The physician administering the injection would know best. 3. If it is a localized tendonitis, an injection can be administered.[Read More] Effective Treatments for Chronic Pain in the Spine and Joints