Cervical spine, Neurosurgery FAQ

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Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and MRI Insights

Herniated disc I would like to consult Dr. Lai regarding my condition. I have cervical spine compression at levels C4, C5, and C6 affecting the spinal cord, and a ruptured intervertebral disc at the lumbar spine L5-S1. I underwent an anterior cervical discectomy on February 22. P...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is severe preoperative compression of the cervical spinal cord that has already caused damage, some patients may experience abnormal sensations postoperatively and may require medication in conjunction with rehabilitation therapy. 2. It is also occasionally obs...

[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Treatment, and MRI Insights


Understanding Neck Issues: Symptoms and Relief for Cervical Disc Problems

Neck issues Hello Doctor, I have a slight protrusion of the cervical intervertebral discs at C3-C4-C5-C6 (as seen on MRI), so I underwent cervical traction (vertical). Initially, I had no pain in my shoulders or neck. However, during the first traction session (50 kg), after pull...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is speculated that after cervical traction, the junction between the occiput, anterior mandible, and cervical spine has been stretched. 2. If this movement causes discomfort, you can discuss with your rehabilitation physician whether to postpone it. Applying heat to ...

[Read More] Understanding Neck Issues: Symptoms and Relief for Cervical Disc Problems


Post-Bicycle Accident: Understanding Concussion Symptoms and Recovery

Bicycle accident resulting in a concussion? Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I fell off my bicycle and landed on my back, remaining conscious. I experienced a concussion, and I lost memory of events before and after the fall. When I took a bite of dinner that evening, I immediately ...


Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
You can return for a follow-up appointment to discuss further treatment.

[Read More] Post-Bicycle Accident: Understanding Concussion Symptoms and Recovery


Understanding the Connection Between Neck Issues and Gastrointestinal Disorders

Please provide more context or specific information regarding the neck for further assistance? Hello, Deputy Director. Thank you for your response. However, why do some online medical articles suggest a connection between stomach issues and the cervical spine? I had a relapse in ...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
A small portion of the cervical spine may affect the autonomic nervous system, which is related to the gastrointestinal system.

[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Neck Issues and Gastrointestinal Disorders


Understanding Cervical Spine Issues and Surgical Options: A Patient's Journey

Cervical spinal cord issues and surgery? Hello, Vice Dean. I would like to consult you. I have congenital S-shaped scoliosis, with a lumbar curvature of 90 degrees and significant thoracic curvature. In 2000, I developed a gastric condition that led me to sleep in a raised positi...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. Gastroesophageal reflux should not be related to the cervical spine. 2. Muscle atrophy of the right thumb is a possibility. 3. Without detailed medical history and physical examination, an accurate answer cannot be provided.

[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Issues and Surgical Options: A Patient's Journey


Understanding Mid-Back and Peripheral Numbness: Causes and Solutions

Mid-back numbness and peripheral numbness? Hello Doctor, in the past week or two, I have been experiencing a tingling sensation, similar to an electric shock, in the middle right part of my back. This usually occurs when I extend my right arm forward, lean forward, grip something...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Preliminary assessment suggests that 1. your hand symptoms may be due to nerve compression from the cervical spine or upper limbs. Corresponding nerve examinations can be arranged for evaluation. 2. The back symptoms may be related to thoracic nerve issues, which should al...

[Read More] Understanding Mid-Back and Peripheral Numbness: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Cervical Spine MRI: Cysts, Compression, and Treatment Options

Cervical spine MRI cyst? Hello Dr. Zhao, I previously experienced upper back pain and numbness in my limbs. I later went to an orthopedic specialist for an X-ray, which revealed cervical spine compression. Subsequently, I visited a neurosurgeon who arranged for a cervical MRI (wi...


Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: An MRI is needed for further evaluation in neurosurgery.

[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine MRI: Cysts, Compression, and Treatment Options


Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Recovery and Treatment Insights

Cervical spine fracture Hello Doctor, my relative was in a car accident two days ago. The vehicle in front made an emergency stop, causing my relative, who was riding a motorcycle, to collide with it due to insufficient braking. They experienced severe pain at the scene and were ...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. The pain is not caused by edema, but by nerve damage; edema can occur during the acute phase of nerve injury. 2. If the limbs are still functional, the risk of subsequent paralysis is low, unless further injury occurs. 3. This depends on the severity of the initial nerve d...

[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Recovery and Treatment Insights


Understanding Neck Pain: Seeking Answers for Chronic Discomfort

Neck problems Hello Doctor, I am Xiao Yang, and I live in Taichung. I often feel that the bones in my cervical spine are misaligned, which I believe is compressing my breathing and causing difficulty in respiration. My neck feels very tight, as if someone is choking me. This symp...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It feels like a case of autonomic nervous system dysfunction or other psychosomatic issues. You may discuss with a neurologist whether it is appropriate to undergo a cervical MRI.

[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Seeking Answers for Chronic Discomfort


Understanding Post-Operative Outcomes of Cervical Spine Surgery

Cervical spine surgery recovery Is the muscle damage significant in posterior approach surgery, and will there be severe sequelae after the procedure? Will the pain subside?


Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Regular follow-up visits for assessment and examination can be scheduled.

[Read More] Understanding Post-Operative Outcomes of Cervical Spine Surgery


Can Masturbation Cause Neck Injuries? Understanding Disc Issues and Posture

Can masturbation cause neck injuries? Hello, doctor. Recently, I hit my head and had an X-ray of my neck. The doctor mentioned that there are two bone spurs and a herniated cervical disc. I would like to ask, besides frequently using my phone, could poor posture and stiffness in ...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Cervical spine injuries in the general population are often caused by impacts to the head, whiplash injuries to the cervical spine, or prolonged periods of looking down or up while working, using a mobile phone, or having an inadequate pillow, which can lead to poor cer...

[Read More] Can Masturbation Cause Neck Injuries? Understanding Disc Issues and Posture


Understanding Cervical Spondylosis: MRI Insights and Treatment Options

Cervical and Shoulder Pain MRI Report 2023/11/30 MRI REPORT Summary: The patient has experienced soreness and pain over the right shoulder joint for several months, with recent onset of numbness and pain radiating to the forearm and fingertips. There are noted sleep disturbances...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on the information you provided, there is nerve root compression in the cervical spine, but it does not seem to be severe. 2. To assess the need for surgery, it is important to consider the patient's actual condition, the relevant X-ray and MRI images, and th...

[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spondylosis: MRI Insights and Treatment Options


Head Injury and Neck Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Causes

Head trauma with neck pain extending to the head? Hello doctor, two days ago I bumped my head against a rising iron gate, hitting the area near the back of my head. When I hit it, my neck flexed slightly, and since then I have been experiencing significant pain from my neck to my...


Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: A severe impact to the head may potentially cause injury to the cervical spine, affecting the stability of the vertebrae. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is necessary to visit a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for examination and treatment. The Changhua Hosp...

[Read More] Head Injury and Neck Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Causes


Understanding the Impact of Head Injuries on Lower Limb Pain

Consultation Inquiry Hello Doctor: I sustained a head injury from a car accident (right side head trauma with right cheek contusion and mild subarachnoid hemorrhage on the left side) and have been resting for over a month. I would like to ask if my head injury could affect the te...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your questions: 1. Will a head injury affect the tendon in my right heel? Theoretically, no. 2. I experience a stretching pain in the tendon at the back of my right heel when I squat or kneel. It is suspected to be a soft tissue injury in the right heel. It is recommended ...

[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Head Injuries on Lower Limb Pain


Recovery Concerns After Head Trauma: Medication, Symptoms, and Safety Gear

Issues Related to the Recovery Period of Head Trauma Hello Doctor: I previously asked a question regarding my condition after a car accident, where I sustained a right-sided head injury (swelling on the right side of my face), along with mild subarachnoid hemorrhage on the left s...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Recovery time varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the injury, so it cannot be generalized. Most individuals will see significant improvement within two weeks.

[Read More] Recovery Concerns After Head Trauma: Medication, Symptoms, and Safety Gear


Concerns About Neck Injuries in Children from Playful Lifting

Cervical spine issues in children caused by pulling on the head? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about an adult friend who, while playing with a 10-year-old child, held the sides of the child's head with their hands and lifted it up for 1-2 seconds before putting it down....


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. This is indeed a very dangerous action. Please avoid it. 2. Currently, if the child is observed for 2 weeks and shows no signs of altered consciousness or abnormal limb activity, it is likely that no harm has been done. Best wishes to you all. By Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neur...

[Read More] Concerns About Neck Injuries in Children from Playful Lifting


Understanding Cervical Spine Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Cervical cone issue Last year, I experienced tinnitus in my left ear, neck pain, and left chest tightness, so I visited the outpatient department of neurosurgery. The doctor requested a cervical MRI, and the report is as follows: **Summary of Imaging Findings** Multiplanar mu...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is difficult to determine the issue based solely on the report. It is recommended to visit a neurosurgery specialty clinic for a detailed physical evaluation in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options


Understanding Thumb Tremors: Is It Related to Cervical Disc Issues?

Tremor of the left thumb? Ten years ago, I had an MRI that showed herniated discs at the cervical levels C3-C4-C5, with symptoms that fluctuate in severity. When I feel uncomfortable, I go for physical therapy, but recently my discomfort has increased. Turning my neck to the left...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected to be a symptom of cervical nerve involvement. Given your age and symptoms, there is little likelihood of brain issues or Parkinson's disease. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine Surgery Department, Changhua Hospital.

[Read More] Understanding Thumb Tremors: Is It Related to Cervical Disc Issues?


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 and Tingling After COVID-19: A Guide

Occasional tingling and pain in the hands and feet? Hello, doctor. Since I tested positive for COVID-19 in June, I have been experiencing occasional soreness in my left eye for about one to two weeks. I went for a consultation, and the doctor said my eyes are fatigued. After exam...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The symptoms in your upper arm/lower leg are likely caused by nerve compression from the cervical/lumbar spine. 2. It is not uncommon for symptoms on the left side to switch to the right side, depending on the location of the nerve compression. It is recommended to cons...

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain and Tingling After COVID-19: A Guide


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