Finding the Right Specialist for Persistent Ankle Pain Relief
Ankle pain My father has been suffering from ankle pain for nearly three months. He visited an orthopedic doctor who took X-rays and mentioned that there is a small bone spur, but it needs to grow larger before surgery can be considered. The problem is that my father often limps ...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In the case of bone spurs in the ankle or heel (especially the heel), surgery is generally considered if the spur exceeds one centimeter. Other conservative treatments include using cushioned shoes or soft insoles for protection or rehabilitation. For more detailed treatment opti...[Read More] Finding the Right Specialist for Persistent Ankle Pain Relief
Can You Still Grow Taller at 22? Exploring Height Growth Options
Bone growth Hello Doctor: After this summer vacation, I will be 22 years old, but I have always wanted to grow taller (currently my height is 166 cm). At my current age, do I still have a chance to grow taller? Would taking calcium supplements, medications, or other supplements h...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The importance of character outweighs height, so please do not worry about height issues; it is more important to enrich yourself. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise.[Read More] Can You Still Grow Taller at 22? Exploring Height Growth Options
Effective Supplements for Joint Pain Relief in Middle-Aged Adults
Bone pain Hello, my mother is around 53 years old and usually consumes nutritional drinks for health benefits. Recently, due to work-related physical labor, she has been experiencing joint pain. I did some research online and found that products like glucosamine and nutritional d...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
A balanced diet is sufficient; there is no need to consume excessive dietary supplements. For pain caused by work-related activities, assistive devices such as knee braces and wrist supports should be used for improvement.[Read More] Effective Supplements for Joint Pain Relief in Middle-Aged Adults
Understanding Knee Pain: Is There Really an Extra Ligament?
Is there an extra tendon on the inner side of the knee? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing knee pain for a long time. I had a car accident during middle school, but it wasn't serious, so I didn't pay much attention to it. However, in recent years, every winter or wh...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In the case of knee joint injuries that have not healed over a long period or are unresponsive to medication, a thorough examination should be conducted, such as arthroscopy or MRI. It is recommended to seek treatment at an orthopedic outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Knee Pain: Is There Really an Extra Ligament?
Understanding Coccyx Pain and Its Impact on Spinal Health
Coccyx The bone in the middle of the buttocks is indeed the coccyx. It is prominent and can be easily felt when squatting. If thoracic scoliosis is left untreated, it can lead to various complications. This condition involves an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can ...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The length of the coccyx generally measures within 2 centimeters and rarely protrudes. Due to evolution, the coccyx has lost its original function; however, some individuals still possess a longer coccyx. The treatment for thoracic scoliosis depends on the degree of curvature and...[Read More] Understanding Coccyx Pain and Its Impact on Spinal Health
Understanding Flat Feet: Impact on Basketball Performance and Balance
Issues related to flat feet? I previously had an X-ray of my foot, which showed angles of over 161 and 166 degrees. The doctor diagnosed me with flat feet. Since I play basketball, I would like to ask a few questions: 1. (1) When I play basketball and collide with others, I oft...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
Flatfoot individuals can still engage in most sports, and the six points mentioned are related to this condition. However, using supportive athletic shoes with insoles can provide protection while exercising, which may reduce associated symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Flat Feet: Impact on Basketball Performance and Balance
Understanding Radial Bone Tumors: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Radial long tumor My sister recently visited an orthopedic clinic due to wrist pain. After an X-ray, the doctor mentioned a tumor on the radius measuring about 10 cm, located near the elbow on her right wrist. The doctor said it was not a concern. Should we consider further exami...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
It is recommended that a 10 cm tumor located on the radius undergo further examination to determine whether it is benign or malignant before proceeding with the next steps in treatment.[Read More] Understanding Radial Bone Tumors: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Sudden Leg Weakness: Possible Causes and Solutions
Hello, Dr. Shi! Doctor: I have a phenomenon where sometimes while walking, my legs suddenly feel weak, and one knee tends to buckle. This doesn’t happen often, but occasionally I experience this while walking. I’m not sure if it’s due to poor bone health or something else.
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The structure of the knee is extremely complex, involving not only bone issues but also problems with ligaments and menisci. It is recommended to visit an orthopedic clinic for a proper diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Leg Weakness: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Gouty Tophi: Diagnosis Without Surgery
Gout stone issues? Dear Deputy Director: Due to my personal circumstances, I have not yet served in the military. However, after suffering from gout for several decades, I have developed a hard lump on my right big toe. I have visited other hospitals, and the doctors have sugge...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In response to the military service examination, a biopsy result or joint fluid extraction for polarized light microscopy examination is required. However, our hospital does not offer this examination. It is recommended to go to a medical center for further diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Gouty Tophi: Diagnosis Without Surgery
Left Humerus Fracture: Healing Challenges and Treatment Options
The left humeral fracture has not healed after nine months? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident in June last year, resulting in a fracture of my left humerus, and I have a metal plate inside. It has been over nine months, and it still hasn't fully healed. I have poor gastroi...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
It is noted that after an open reduction and internal fixation of a humeral fracture, there is a common occurrence of poor healing (approximately 5%). Therefore, if instability, functional impairment, or severe pain arises due to poor healing, a revision surgery with bone graftin...[Read More] Left Humerus Fracture: Healing Challenges and Treatment Options
Post-Surgery Issues with Artificial Bone: Managing Swelling and Discomfort
Postoperative issues related to artificial bone surgery? My grandmother had a fracture above her knee about a month and a half ago and underwent surgery to replace the bone with an artificial one. The doctor applied a cast (from the fracture site to the sole of her foot) because ...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The fracture above the knee is likely a distal femoral fracture, which is generally considered an unstable fracture. Postoperatively, it should be stabilized with a cast for a short period (approximately four to six weeks). If there is pressure from the cast on the sole of the fo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Issues with Artificial Bone: Managing Swelling and Discomfort
Understanding Scoliosis: When Does It Affect Military Service Eligibility?
Thoracic scoliosis Hello, Deputy Director. May I ask what degree of thoracic scoliosis qualifies for alternative military service? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In cases where there is a significant deformity and functional impairment at an angle of approximately 30 degrees or more.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: When Does It Affect Military Service Eligibility?
Understanding Degenerative Knee Arthritis and Medication Challenges
Degenerative knee osteoarthritis and issues related to pharmacological treatment? Hello, Doctor. In recent years, every time I get out of bed, my bare feet feel like they are being compressed and painful as soon as they touch the ground. However, the pain disappears after I take ...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In response to your symptoms, it appears that you are experiencing plantar fascia inflammation. This occurs when the arch of the foot flattens upon the initial step, leading to stretching and pain in the plantar fascia. Generally, injection treatments are not necessary. Regarding...[Read More] Understanding Degenerative Knee Arthritis and Medication Challenges
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Managing Pain and Sleep Issues
Ankylosing Spondylitis I have been suffering from ankylosing spondylitis for 15 years. Currently, I am taking anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medications at the Immunology and Rheumatology Department of Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Two weeks ago, I suddenly experienced...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic long-term disease that affects various parts of the body, particularly the spine and joints. The pathology occurs due to the adhesion between the joints, leading to a gradual loss of mobility and resulting in stiffness. Additionally, decreased ...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Managing Pain and Sleep Issues
Do Shadows on Foot X-rays Indicate a Fracture? Understanding the Connection
Does a shadow on an X-ray of the foot indicate a fracture? Hello Doctor: Recently, I fell while riding my bike and injured the top of my right foot. At that time, there were two areas on the upper part of my right foot that immediately swelled and were extremely painful. A few mi...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The shadow on the bone could be caused by various factors such as fractures, skin folds, congenital abnormalities, or remnants of childhood injuries. Therefore, additional evidence is needed to support the diagnosis, including swelling, severe pain, or inability to bear weight, a...[Read More] Do Shadows on Foot X-rays Indicate a Fracture? Understanding the Connection
Understanding Shoulder, Neck, and Back Discomfort: Essential Diagnostic Insights
Related examinations for discomfort in the shoulder, neck, and back? Hello, Doctor: Around September of last year, I visited the hospital for an examination due to discomfort in my shoulders, neck, and back. At that time, a lateral X-ray of my cervical spine was taken, which sho...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
1. If cervical spine lesions are accompanied by neurological changes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be performed for a more accurate diagnosis. 2. Most shoulder and neck conditions are soft tissue lesions, and X-ray examinations are not routinely performed but depend on...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder, Neck, and Back Discomfort: Essential Diagnostic Insights
Recovery Time for Distal Phalanx Fractures of the Toes
The recovery time for a distal phalanx fracture? At the end of December last year, I suffered a fracture of the distal phalanx of my first and second toes due to an accident. The doctor mentioned that it was a hairline fracture and advised me to rest for a period of time. I was p...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
For a non-displaced toe fracture (linear fracture), if treated with a cast, immobilization is typically required for about six to eight weeks before removal. To fully restore original function and normal walking, it is best to aim for around 12 weeks.[Read More] Recovery Time for Distal Phalanx Fractures of the Toes
Effective Rehabilitation Exercises for Ankle Injuries
Ankle rehabilitation I'm sorry, but I would like to ask how to rehabilitate an ankle?
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
It is important to note that ankle injuries are prone to re-injury; therefore, a minimum of six weeks of rest is recommended following the injury. When resuming activities or sports, it is essential to use ankle support for protection. Rehabilitation should focus on minimizing pr...[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Exercises for Ankle Injuries
Understanding Pain Below the Knee: Causes and Treatment Options
Pain below the knee? I would like to consult with the deputy director. Two months ago, I started experiencing pain in the inner side of my right leg, just below the knee (in the bony area). The pain is more pronounced when going up and down stairs or when bending my leg, and pres...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
The pain point located on the inner side of the lower left knee may be related to the attachment site of the thigh muscles. Therefore, activities such as going up and down stairs or bending the knee can cause pain. This may be due to tendonitis in that area. If pain persists desp...[Read More] Understanding Pain Below the Knee: Causes and Treatment Options
What to Do If Your Growth Plates Are Closed?
What should be done if the growth plates have fused? I am currently in my second year of high school (almost 17 years old), but I am still 2 centimeters short of 170 centimeters. I recently had an X-ray, and the doctor said that my growth plates have fused, but he mentioned that ...
Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
We recommend that you engage in regular exercise and maintain a balanced diet, as there is still a chance for growth. Please do not lose hope.[Read More] What to Do If Your Growth Plates Are Closed?