Understanding Rib Cartilage Protrusion: Posture vs. Structural Issues
Rib issues consultation If the condition of costochondral protrusion (and the compression and depression of the lower costal cartilage) is caused by a long-standing slouched sitting posture (assuming there are no other or unknown factors), would it be considered a fixed developme...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Given your condition, the chances of recovery are not high (as growth has already stabilized), but it is important to monitor the curvature angle of the spine and check for any signs of pectus carinatum.[Read More] Understanding Rib Cartilage Protrusion: Posture vs. Structural Issues
Understanding Shoulder Pain After Clavicle Fracture Surgery
Clavicle fracture I would like to ask about my clavicle fracture from a car accident on May 26. I had surgery the next day for fixation, and I didn't experience much pain after the surgery. I wore a brace for a month, but during my follow-up appointment on June 19, the docto...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: It has been over a month since the surgery, so the likelihood of displacement is low. Mild neck and shoulder pain is likely to persist for two to three months, as long as there is no further impact.[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Pain After Clavicle Fracture Surgery
Understanding Congenital Clinodactyly: Treatment Options for Finger Issues
The inward angulation of the tip of the little finger by 10 to 15 degrees is likely indicative of congenital clinodactyly? The first issue is that I have been playing the piano since childhood, and now that I have grown up, I feel that the second joint of my little finger is stif...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: It is important to first determine the cause of the neck deformity or mobility impairment. Any surgery on the hand may result in a reduction of range of motion. It is recommended to consult a hand surgeon to decide on the appropriate treatment. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Congenital Clinodactyly: Treatment Options for Finger Issues
Understanding Disc Herniation from Improper Weightlifting Techniques
Herniated disc due to improper weightlifting posture (speculated by orthopedic clinic physician)? About a week ago, I injured myself while doing squats during weight training. It was very painful at the time, and bending over at home was painful as well. I had difficulty putting ...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
It's unclear how you would know if there is an issue with the cartilage. If it's just a muscle strain in the back, then rest and rehabilitation should suffice. However, if there is damage to the intervertebral disc cartilage, the treatment will depend on the severity of...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation from Improper Weightlifting Techniques
Understanding Sensations After Forearm Surgery with Metal Plates
After the steel plate insertion, there is sensation in the hand? I would like to ask the doctor, I have an open fracture in my right forearm and had two plates inserted. It has been over two weeks since the surgery, and I am no longer taking pain medication or antibiotics. Someti...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: After a fracture surgery, the main focus is on the stability of the fracture reduction and fixation. There may be some aching pain and swelling, but there are no specific abnormalities. If there is severe pain, further X-ray examination is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Sensations After Forearm Surgery with Metal Plates
Understanding Left Rib Pain After an Accident: Causes and Recovery Tips
Left costal margin pain Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I was in a car accident and sustained an impact below my left rib cage. I informed the physician in the emergency department, but no treatment was provided, as I thought it would heal in a few days. That day, I noticed some b...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Chest contusions with minor rib fractures or just contusion pain may persist for several weeks. If discomfort continues after one month, it is advisable to visit the hospital again to confirm whether there are any fractures or other issues.[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Pain After an Accident: Causes and Recovery Tips
Managing Pain in Elderly Patients with Shoulder Fractures: Expert Advice
Comminuted fracture of the shoulder? Hello Doctor, I would like to consult about an 84-year-old patient who suffered a comminuted shoulder fracture due to a fall. Currently, the patient is only using a sling for immobilization, but they are experiencing significant pain. The phys...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: A comminuted fracture of the shoulder can be challenging to manage if the body cannot tolerate the risks of anesthesia. Loose fixation may lead to discomfort and stiffness in the limb. If the cardiopulmonary function is adequate and can withstand anesthesia, surgical fixat...[Read More] Managing Pain in Elderly Patients with Shoulder Fractures: Expert Advice
Non-Surgical Solutions for Spine Issues: Can They Help?
Can it be improved without surgery? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you! I would like to ask you about my condition. Two years ago, I had a spinal deformity and visited a doctor at National Taiwan University in Hsinchu, who recommended surgery to prevent the risk of paral...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Lumbar spine surgery does not typically affect the cervical spine, unless there is a significant deformity in the lumbar region that requires evaluation. The assessment of spinal curvature and balance in the lateral view of the spine is necessary for understanding the cond...[Read More] Non-Surgical Solutions for Spine Issues: Can They Help?
Understanding Calcification in the Second Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Ligament, calcification Hello, doctor. My right foot, specifically the second toe area on the dorsum, has been painful for over a month whenever I walk and stretch that area or walk barefoot on the floor. I don't recall any trauma or injury during this time. I visited a trad...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: This condition depends on whether you have other foot deformities, such as hallux valgus. Joint dislocations are unlikely to occur without significant injury, especially considering your age. Continuous manipulation may not be very helpful.[Read More] Understanding Calcification in the Second Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Slow Recovery from Fifth Metatarsal Fracture: Tips and Insights
Slow recovery from metatarsal fractures? 1. How much longer is the normal recovery time? Are there any ways to expedite the healing process? 2. Is it necessary to wear a brace 24 hours a day? 3. How can I strengthen my bone density? 4. The doctor suggested an out-of-pocket ...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: If there is a metatarsal fracture in the foot without pain, and due to osteoporosis the callus formation is not significant, observation may be considered. Follow-up with self-paid osteoporosis injections can be pursued, as clinically they do not provide significant help f...[Read More] Slow Recovery from Fifth Metatarsal Fracture: Tips and Insights
Managing Complications After Hip Fracture Surgery in Elderly Patients
The steel pins have shifted due to fractures caused by osteoporosis? My mother is 90 years old and suffered a greater trochanter fracture due to a fall. After surgery, her leg became swollen like an elephant's leg. Subsequently, she received treatment from a vascular special...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: It is not uncommon for osteoporosis to cause the displacement of metal pins clinically. If the fracture reduction is acceptable, some cases can be assisted with plaster casting. However, if the pattern of bone displacement is unacceptable, it is necessary to re-lay the pat...[Read More] Managing Complications After Hip Fracture Surgery in Elderly Patients
Understanding the Risk of Bone Metastasis in Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients
Regarding bone cancer metastasis? I would like to inquire: My father has a ten-year history of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Recently, he has been experiencing lower back pain, numbness radiating down to his legs, and symptoms related to hyperuricemia. A few days ago, an MRI at Macka...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Cancer metastasis is not uncommon during routine follow-up. From MRI scans, lesions can be initially assessed to determine if they are tumors; however, it cannot be confirmed whether they are metastatic from nasopharyngeal carcinoma. This can only be supported by the patie...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of Bone Metastasis in Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to Consult?
Ankylosing spondylitis Doctor, I would like to ask whether ankylosing spondylitis should be evaluated by a rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist. Is ankylosing spondylitis considered a major illness?
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Ankylosing spondylitis is primarily treated by rheumatologists, and if surgery is required, it is then managed by orthopedic surgeons. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Spinal Fractures: When Surgery is Necessary
Vertebral fracture Doctor, I'm sorry to bother you. A few days ago, I had an X-ray at Mackay Memorial Hospital, which revealed a fracture in my spine. I had previously undergone an X-ray at another hospital, but they did not detect the fracture; they only mentioned bone spur...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: If there is a fracture in the vertebrae without trauma, it is necessary to consider whether it is due to congenital joint space deficiency or spina bifida, in which case urgent surgery may not be required. If the acute fracture is caused by trauma and does not affect spina...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Fractures: When Surgery is Necessary
Why Can't I Bend My Leg After 3 Weeks of Femur Fracture?
Femoral fracture resulting in inability to flex? Doctor, I have a fracture in my left thigh, and it has been three weeks. Why is my left leg still unable to bend? Should I try to force it to bend, or should I avoid straining it?
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: Is it that the knee joint cannot bend? If the fracture is close to the knee joint, this could be a possible symptom. Whether it can be forcibly bent depends on the stability after the fracture surgery, so it is advisable to consult the surgeon. Thank you.[Read More] Why Can't I Bend My Leg After 3 Weeks of Femur Fracture?
Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Scoliosis of 8 degrees? Hello, doctor! I have an 8-degree scoliosis. Is that normal? My growth plates have already closed, so will the degree of scoliosis increase? Can I use a pull-up bar to straighten my spine? I am 18 years and 2 months old. Thank you for your response!
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: The growth plates have closed with an 8-degree scoliosis, so the chance of worsening is low. Performing pull-ups for correction is unlikely to be effective. If there are no symptoms, monitoring is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Dealing with Shoulder Pain After a Childhood Injury: What to Do?
Bone issues Hello Dr. Wang, when I was in the second grade of elementary school, I accidentally fell while playing on the monkey bars, resulting in a fracture in my shoulder bone. At that time, the doctor only gave me a triangular sling and did not recommend any follow-up. Now th...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: It is rare for children to experience long-term complications from fractures. In such cases, recommendations can only be provided based on the specific condition of the fracture. Thank you.[Read More] Dealing with Shoulder Pain After a Childhood Injury: What to Do?
Can I Still Grow Taller at 19? Understanding Height Growth Potential
Height growth issues Hello, doctor: I am currently 19 years old and attending university. My height has been consistently 161 cm. Do I still have a chance to grow taller?
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: If the growth plates in the knee have fused, the chances of further height increase are minimal.[Read More] Can I Still Grow Taller at 19? Understanding Height Growth Potential
Will Bone Regenerate After Hip Screw Removal? Expert Insights
Bone issues after removal of hip joint screws..? Dear Doctor: I had a car accident in June of the year before last, which resulted in a comminuted fracture of my left hip joint. Next month, I will be having the plates and screws removed. I have a question regarding the void left ...
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: If the hole left after removing the metal screw is not too large, it will typically close up within about three months, and usually, there is no need for additional bone grafting. Please avoid weight-bearing and vigorous activities for one month. Thank you.[Read More] Will Bone Regenerate After Hip Screw Removal? Expert Insights
Are X-rays and MRIs Harmful After Lumbar Spine Injury?
Is X-ray imaging of the lumbar spine and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) harmful to the body? Is it harmful to the body to have ten X-rays, two bone density tests, and one MRI after a lumbar spine injury over the course of two months?
Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: X-rays and bone density tests involve radiation exposure, while MRI does not involve any radiation at all. If the condition requires the examination, it should be performed. With modern equipment, the radiation exposure is minimal and has little impact. Thank you.[Read More] Are X-rays and MRIs Harmful After Lumbar Spine Injury?