Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms After a Bathroom Fall
Slipped in the bathroom and hit the back of the head? On July 22, I went on a two-day pilgrimage. On the first night, I slipped and fell in the bathroom, hitting the back of my head. I went to Asia University Hospital for evaluation and was diagnosed with a mild concussion. Three...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It has been a month, and the likelihood of a brain hemorrhage is low. However, if discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek treatment at a neurosurgery outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms After a Bathroom Fall
Understanding Nerve Pain in the Back: Causes and Treatment Options
Nerve pain in the back muscles? Approximately 12 to 13 years ago, I started working as a home-based worker, frequently lifting heavy boxes and climbing three flights of stairs (often making dozens of trips). I also spent long hours sitting in the same position. About 8 years ago,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected to be a cervical nerve pathology. It is recommended to bring your previous MRI results and consult a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain in the Back: Causes and Treatment Options
Recovery and Rehab After Microdiscectomy for L5-S1 Disc Herniation
Microdiscectomy for L5-S1 Disc Herniation in Athletes Hello Doctor, I had a microdiscectomy for an L5-S1 herniated disc at the end of June. Since the herniated portion was quite large, I would like to ask you: 1. How long will it take before I can engage in intense exercise? 2. W...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. Approximately three months, depending on the condition. 2. Please consult a rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Recovery and Rehab After Microdiscectomy for L5-S1 Disc Herniation
Understanding Sacral Dimpling: Causes, Concerns, and Back Pain Links
It seems to be a sacral dimple? Hello, I would like to inquire about a depression I have on my buttocks. I initially thought it was something everyone had, but later realized it was different. After researching online, it seems to resemble a sacral dimple. The depression is locat...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It doesn't sound like a significant issue; it's likely just a normal variation. However, if you're still concerned, it's advisable to schedule an appointment with a spine specialist for a thorough examination.[Read More] Understanding Sacral Dimpling: Causes, Concerns, and Back Pain Links
Understanding Bumps on the Skull: Causes and Concerns
Protrusion of the cranial bones? Hello Doctor, I recently noticed a bump near the top of my head. If I divide the area into front, back, left, and right, the front and right sides feel like a normal continuous contour. However, when I touch the back and left sides, there is a sud...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is possible that the irregularities were always present, and you have only recently noticed them. It is recommended to observe for another month or two.[Read More] Understanding Bumps on the Skull: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Dizziness: Exploring Neck and Shoulder Connections
Chronic dizziness Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing long-term dizziness (not vertigo, and I do not feel unbalanced). I do not have any chronic illnesses and have consulted a neurologist. My EEG results were normal, and I have been taking a medication called Nootropil for a ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without a detailed physical examination, it is impossible to determine; it could be present or it could be absent.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Dizziness: Exploring Neck and Shoulder Connections
Understanding Lumbar Disc Rupture and Its Impact on Disability Claims
Lumbar intervertebral disc herniation at L3, L4, and L5 - surgery was performed to install a lumbar stabilizer? Hello, doctor. I have a question. I underwent surgery for a herniated disc at the lumbar levels L3, L4, and L5 due to a car accident (it has been a year and a half sinc...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. After your injury and surgery, your recovery has not been ideal. This may be due to the severity of the injury prior to surgery. If you wish to reassess whether there is room for adjustment in your treatment, you can obtain copies of your medical records and MRI/X-ray i...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Rupture and Its Impact on Disability Claims
Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Fall
Fell and hit the back of the head? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I accidentally fell and hit the back of my head. It immediately swelled up significantly, and aside from the redness, swelling, and pain at the impact site, there were no other unusual symptoms that day. I applied ice, ...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: Common symptoms of head trauma include concussion symptoms, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Typically, these symptoms will gradually improve. If there are any changes, you can follow up at a neurosurgery outpatient clinic. Generally, after 48 hours, you may appl...[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: What to Do After a Fall
Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Ongoing Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Postoperative back pain persists for one to two years? Hello, doctor! My mother is 59 years old. Two years ago, she suffered from severe lower back and leg pain, and no pain medication was effective. The doctor diagnosed her with a herniated disc compressing the nerves, and after...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The report you provided indicates: L3-4 and L4-5 lumbar disc bulging, and L5-S1 disc herniation with compression of the dural sac... this suggests the presence of nerve compression. 2. I recommend that you copy the disc and bring the MRI images (not just the text) for t...[Read More] Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Ongoing Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Understanding Post-Car Accident Head Injuries and Symptoms
Head injury from a car accident? Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, I was in a car accident where I hit a tree. The left side of my face is bruised and swollen, and there are slight fractures in my orbital bone and skull. I have bruises on my neck and limbs. The doctor said it would ...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: You can schedule an appointment for a consultation in the neurosurgery department for a detailed evaluation and examination. Issues related to trauma can sometimes manifest later. If new problems arise, further examinations can be arranged for confirmation. Changhua Hospit...[Read More] Understanding Post-Car Accident Head Injuries and Symptoms
Post-Surgery Numbness in Feet: Causes and Recommended Actions
The occurrence of foot numbness after bone cement surgery, with the numbness gradually spreading from the toes upwards, could potentially be related to the surgery. It is important to assess whether this numbness is due to nerve compression, vascular issues, or other postoperativ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is suspected that there is a lesion in the spinal nerves. 2. Why was a spinal neurosurgeon not chosen to address the spinal fracture issue initially? 3. Seeking consultation from another specialty after experiencing discomfort post-surgery may cause some confusion fo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Numbness in Feet: Causes and Recommended Actions
Understanding EMG and Nerve Conduction Study Results for Back Pain
Report Interpretation Hello doctor, the attached image is an electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction study report. I would like to ask you to review it for any issues. Currently, my symptoms include persistent pain in the lower back, which sometimes radiates to the soles of m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your symptom description, it is suspected that lumbar spine lesions are causing sciatica. 2. Your nerve conduction study report suggests a possible peripheral neuropathy in both lower limbs, which does not appear to be consistent with lumbar nerve pathology. 3....[Read More] Understanding EMG and Nerve Conduction Study Results for Back Pain
Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Numbness and Mobility Issues
Postoperative foot numbness and inability to walk after minimally invasive spinal surgery? Hello doctor, my family member underwent minimally invasive surgery on the lumbar spine from the third to the fifth vertebrae over a month ago, and they are experiencing complete paralysis ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: The situation of your family sounds unfortunate. The original surgeon will have the best understanding of the preoperative and intraoperative conditions. However, it is essential to patiently cooperate with rehabilitation. Wishing for a speedy recovery from Changhua Hospit...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Numbness and Mobility Issues
Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery After a Fall
Head trauma Yesterday, my sister was playing basketball and during a struggle for the ball, her opponent applied excessive force, causing her to be thrown to the ground, resulting in a direct impact to the right side of her head. The affected area swelled significantly, and she f...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Obvious concussion symptoms typically improve within one to two weeks, and generally, there are rarely any long-term sequelae.[Read More] Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery After a Fall
Is Golf Safe for Patients with Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis Doctor, I would like to ask if it is suitable for me to play golf with my lumbar vertebrae 3, 4, and 5 having a slippage. Are there other exercises that are more appropriate for someone with lumbar spine issues? Thank you.
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Lumbar spondylolisthesis may not necessarily present with symptoms. If you play golf and do not experience any lower back pain during the activity, it may not be necessary to refrain from it. Suitable exercises for the lumbar spine include stretching, pull-ups, swimming, a...[Read More] Is Golf Safe for Patients with Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?
Understanding Hand Numbness: When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Numbness in the hands? Hello doctor, on Wednesday I experienced a tingling sensation in my hands that felt like an electric shock. Now only the fingertips of both hands are numb, and when I wash my hands, it feels like I'm being shocked. Even touching things causes numbness....
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, general finger numbness may be related to peripheral circulation, peripheral nerves (such as the median nerve or ulnar nerve), cervical spine issues, or even brain conditions. It is essential for a physician to assess your symptoms comprehensively to make an initial diagno...[Read More] Understanding Hand Numbness: When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Understanding Right Shoulder and Neck Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Right shoulder and neck pain? I would like to ask the doctor. I'm not sure if it's because I got water in my ear after showering a few days ago, but I kept shaking my head to the left, and the next day I felt pain at the junction of my right shoulder and neck, as if it ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: The initial assessment suggests a deep muscle fascia strain in the shoulder and neck area, leading to inflammation. It is also important to consider possible compression of the cervical nerves. It is recommended to wear a cervical collar at home, apply heat (switch to ice ...[Read More] Understanding Right Shoulder and Neck Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Post-Discectomy Pain: Understanding Recovery and Future Risks
Postoperative care for herniated disc surgery? I apologize, I had spinal disc surgery three months ago, where only part of the disc was removed and nothing was implanted. Sometimes I still experience pain in my buttocks, and when sitting, if my back is not straight and my head is...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Your condition may indicate that the nerves have not fully healed. It is also possible that scar tissue is adhering to the nerves, or it could be a sign of recurrence. Of course, there may be other reasons as well. I recommend that you bring your pre-operative and pos...[Read More] Post-Discectomy Pain: Understanding Recovery and Future Risks
Best Pillows for Herniated Discs: Finding Comfort and Support
What type of pillow is recommended for a herniated disc? Hello Director Lai, I have been dealing with cervical disc herniation for 18 years. Back then, I experienced constant pain while awake, but after a year of rehabilitation, the pain disappeared. I have been very mindful of m...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: According to evidence-based medicine, when selecting a pillow, the key points are for back sleeping or side sleeping: 1. The area between the head, neck, and shoulders should have proper support (there should be no gaps, and the neck should not be suspended). 2. The cervic...[Read More] Best Pillows for Herniated Discs: Finding Comfort and Support
Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery: Risks and Benefits for Seniors
Evaluation of Spinal Fusion Surgery Hello, doctor. My mother is 71 years old and has chronic diseases. Currently, she experiences difficulty walking for extended periods, accompanied by lower back pain and numbness in both legs. She has undergone X-rays and an MRI, and the doctor...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Spinal disorders that compress nerves can cause symptoms such as aching, cramping, numbness, weakness, and limping. While these conditions are not life-threatening, they can significantly impact quality of life and dignity. In severe cases, they may lead to impaired mobili...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery: Risks and Benefits for Seniors