Is It Too Early to Walk Without Crutches After an Ankle Fracture?
Medial malleolus fracture Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I suffered an ankle fracture due to a car accident on February 16 and had two metal screws inserted. After my follow-up appointment on April 7, the doctor said I could start to gradually put weight on...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello, theoretically, after two months, you should be able to bear partial weight. The use of crutches is still recommended. If the wound has completely healed, you should soak it in warm water, which should help alleviate any soreness. Currently, the bone may not be fully healed...[Read More] Is It Too Early to Walk Without Crutches After an Ankle Fracture?
Ankle Screw Removal: Recovery Timeline and Considerations for Athletes
Removal of ankle screws? Hello! I would like to ask a question. I had ankle surgery last March, and they put some screws in at that time. Now I am considering having them removed. I am currently studying in the United States and also playing on a sports team (it's the season...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: First, it is important to confirm whether the fracture has completely healed. If the fracture has healed, it is recommended to use crutches for about two weeks after the removal of the hardware, after which walking is allowed, but vigorous activities are still not advised....[Read More] Ankle Screw Removal: Recovery Timeline and Considerations for Athletes
Managing Degenerative Knee Ligament Issues in Middle-Aged Women
Knee ligament degeneration Hello, Doctor: I have a question regarding a 50-year-old female patient who is currently experiencing degeneration of the ligaments in one knee (there is a clicking sound when bending). She has been taking pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications c...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The diagnosis of knee ligament degeneration is often ambiguous. It is usually not due to knee ligament degeneration but rather patellar malalignment or patellar chondromalacia. Since a precise diagnosis cannot be determined, it is not advisable to provide recommendations w...[Read More] Managing Degenerative Knee Ligament Issues in Middle-Aged Women
Recovery Time After Tibial Nail Removal: When Can You Walk Normally?
Tibial fracture and removal of metal screws? How long does it take to walk normally after surgery to remove steel pins from the knee?
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: In theory, after the fracture has healed and the steel pins are removed, you should be able to walk normally once the wound has healed. However, it is not advisable to engage in excessive weight-bearing or jumping activities. There are individual differences, so it is reco...[Read More] Recovery Time After Tibial Nail Removal: When Can You Walk Normally?
Is OsteoCare Covered by Health Insurance for Arthritis Treatment?
Is there health insurance coverage for glucosamine? Dr. Chang: Hello! My mother has been experiencing knee pain for a long time (probably over six months). A month ago, she went to the hospital for an X-ray examination, and the orthopedic doctor diagnosed her with stage one osteo...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
For patients with knee osteoarthritis who have symptoms lasting more than six months and are over the age of sixty, coverage is available under health insurance upon physician evaluation. Please be reminded that after every three months of use, a three-month break is required![Read More] Is OsteoCare Covered by Health Insurance for Arthritis Treatment?
Impact of Long-Term Retained Bone Screws on Mobility and Health Risks
Will having thigh and knee bone screws left in for about 20 years affect mobility in the future? I was involved in a severe car accident in 1993, resulting in fractures of both hip joints, the right femur, the left knee joint, and the left tibia. After multiple surgeries, both th...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The principle is to remove internal bone screws and plates; however, many individuals do not have them removed. This decision is related to the patient's age, the location of the screws (such as whether they are embedded within a joint), and the patient's symptom...[Read More] Impact of Long-Term Retained Bone Screws on Mobility and Health Risks
Post-Operative Care for Knee Arthroscopy: Is Rehab Necessary?
Knee arthroscopic debridement surgery Hello Dr. Chang, My mother underwent a left knee arthroscopy at the end of July this year and has recently received hyaluronic acid treatment. However, she has not been feeling well since the surgery (there is no redness, swelling, heat, or...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The findings during knee arthroscopy are very important. Possible intraoperative findings include cartilage softening or damage, meniscal tears, or soft tissue proliferation, among others. Different intraoperative findings determine the surgical approach and outcomes. The ...[Read More] Post-Operative Care for Knee Arthroscopy: Is Rehab Necessary?
Post-Surgery Care Tips for Faster Recovery from Hand Fractures
Postoperative Care and Maintenance Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about caring for a hand fracture after surgery. What can be done to promote faster recovery? Thank you, Doctor.
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: "Hand fractures" is a very general diagnosis that encompasses a wide range of conditions. It is difficult to provide detailed advice. In theory, if the physician believes that the healing of the fracture has progressed enough to begin rehabilitation, then it is a...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care Tips for Faster Recovery from Hand Fractures
Understanding Sacral Spina Bifida and Rib Sclerosis: Causes and Treatment
Occult spinal dysraphism and rib sclerosis? Recent chest X-ray results show 1) suspected sclerosis of the left sixth rib and 2) occult spinal cleft at the sacral vertebrae. What could have caused these findings, and is further treatment necessary?
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: "Occult spinal dysraphism" is congenital and does not require treatment if there are no specific symptoms. "Rib sclerosis" can have many causes, and I cannot provide detailed advice without seeing the X-ray. I apologize for that![Read More] Understanding Sacral Spina Bifida and Rib Sclerosis: Causes and Treatment
Understanding Synovitis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Treatment Options
Regarding synovitis? Hello Dr. Chang, Two years ago, I accidentally discovered a slight swelling in the tendons around my right knee (it feels like a 3 cm swollen line). At that time, I didn't pay much attention to it. However, since the condition hasn't changed and t...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The synovitis you mentioned likely refers to inflammation of the synovial membrane in front of the patella, resulting in the accumulation of fluid. If conservative treatment is ineffective or if there are signs of infection, surgical removal may be necessary. However, this...[Read More] Understanding Synovitis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Treatment Options
Foot Pain While Walking: When to See a Doctor for Diagnosis
Pain in the soles of the feet while walking? Hello, doctor: I have recently noticed pain in the sole of my right foot while walking, particularly at the base of my big toe. Should I see a doctor? Which specialty should I consult? Or would self-heat therapy be sufficient? Thank yo...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The "base of the big toe" is typically an area where pressure accumulates during walking, so long-distance walking or prolonged standing may lead to localized inflammation and pain. You can first try resting and applying heat. If the issue persists, you may want ...[Read More] Foot Pain While Walking: When to See a Doctor for Diagnosis
Choosing the Right Intervertebral Spacer: Wallis vs. Coflex for Disc Herniation
Intervertebral spacer Hello Dr. Chang, I have a herniated disc and recently had an MRI. I consulted two doctors, both of whom recommended surgery and the insertion of an intervertebral spacer. My question is, one doctor suggested using Wallis, while the other said Coflex is too r...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: Whether to use a brace depends on the condition of your disc degeneration, which can be assessed through the MRI report. As for which type of brace to use, to my knowledge, there are currently no long-term and large-scale studies available to compare the differences betwee...[Read More] Choosing the Right Intervertebral Spacer: Wallis vs. Coflex for Disc Herniation
Why Does My Lower Back Hurt and Stay Bent After Sitting?
After sitting for a period of time, when trying to stand up, the lower back is unable to straighten for a while? Hello, I have been experiencing a problem over the past year. When I sit on the floor for a period of time (about 10 to 60 minutes) while using my computer (with my le...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: Based on the situation you described, it is highly likely that your symptoms are caused by muscle spasms in the back. I recommend avoiding prolonged sitting, applying heat therapy, and incorporating stretching exercises and back muscle training into your routine. If the co...[Read More] Why Does My Lower Back Hurt and Stay Bent After Sitting?
Does Using a Stationary Bike Accelerate Wear on Artificial Joints?
Joint replacement with artificial prosthesis? If a physician has replaced a joint with a prosthetic joint, does frequently using a stationary exercise bike accelerate wear on the artificial joint and shorten its lifespan? Are there any special precautions to take while using it? ...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: After knee joint replacement surgery, it is important to maintain moderate exercise, and using a stationary bike is acceptable. Remember to adjust the seat height properly to avoid excessive bending of the knee joint. Additionally, do not set the bike resistance too high t...[Read More] Does Using a Stationary Bike Accelerate Wear on Artificial Joints?
Understanding the Differences Between Knee Implant Materials: A Patient's Guide
Total Knee Replacement Hello, my mother recently underwent a total knee arthroplasty, and the surgery was very successful. Her rehabilitation is also progressing well. The only issue is that she initially requested a self-pay knee implant, but due to an oversight by the hospital,...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The lifespan of artificial joints is primarily related to the patient's post-operative usage. Even with the use of so-called ultra-durable liners, engaging in heavy work can still lead to damage (including osteolysis). There are many cases where health insurance-cover...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Knee Implant Materials: A Patient's Guide
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Closed Radial Shaft Fractures in Seniors
Closed fracture of the right radial shaft? Hello, doctor. My 84-year-old grandmother accidentally fell and sustained a closed fracture of the right radial shaft. The doctor said she needs surgery and the insertion of a graft for treatment, but my grandmother finds it troublesome ...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: Distal radius fractures caused by falls in the elderly typically occur near the wrist, close to the palm. I'm not sure about the extent of displacement after the fracture. The greater the displacement, if not treated with reduction and stabilization, the more signific...[Read More] Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Closed Radial Shaft Fractures in Seniors
Long-Term Use of Ultracet After Knee Replacement: Risks and Concerns
Long-term use of Ultracet? Dear Doctor: My mother, who is 80 years old, underwent a total knee replacement surgery five weeks ago. Although she has been undergoing rehabilitation, she is still experiencing severe pain. The doctor has prescribed Ultracet, three tablets daily, for ...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello, any medication has its side effects, so it is important to understand the patient's level of pain and whether they have had poor responses to other analgesics. For patients with severe pain who do not respond well to other pain relievers, Ultracet is indeed one of the...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Ultracet After Knee Replacement: Risks and Concerns
Non-Surgical Solutions for Severe Hip Joint Damage
Patients with hip joint damage who are not candidates for surgery? If both hips are confirmed to be worn out and surgery is not an option due to the patient's physical condition, are there any other methods for a cure? Or ways to alleviate pain (besides taking pain medicatio...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: If hip joint degeneration reaches the point where surgery is necessary, one of the purposes of the surgery is to remove the source of pain. Therefore, if you wish to achieve a "cure," surgery may be the only option. If your physical condition is assessed by a phy...[Read More] Non-Surgical Solutions for Severe Hip Joint Damage
Can Frequent Walking and Standing Lead to Osteoarthritis?
Degenerative arthritis My job requires me to walk and stand frequently. Will this lead to osteoarthritis? I feel weak when climbing stairs.
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: Degenerative arthritis is usually caused by overuse. For the knee joint, excessive weight-bearing (including lifting heavy objects and being overweight), prolonged squatting, and long-distance activities (such as stair climbing and hiking) can increase the load on the knee...[Read More] Can Frequent Walking and Standing Lead to Osteoarthritis?
Understanding Osteoporosis Risks and Calcium Absorption in Young Adults
Osteoporosis Hello Dr. Chang, I am 29 years old. After undergoing a specialized bone density examination using X-ray equipment at a major hospital, my T-score and Z-score were both close to -2.5. My elders have osteoporosis, and I have a small bone structure, which seems to plac...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: Osteoporosis is indeed related to the absorption and metabolism of calcium. Our bone mass is in a dynamic balance, meaning that old bone is constantly being resorbed while new bone is being formed. If you have not excessively sunbathed, and maintain moderate exercise and a...[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis Risks and Calcium Absorption in Young Adults