Post-Microdiscectomy: Persistent Numbness in Buttocks and Feet Explained
Numbness in the buttocks and soles of the feet after minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery? Dear Director Lai, Hello! My mother is 71 years old and has been experiencing worsening symptoms of numbness, pain, and limping in her legs due to L4-5 spondylolisthesis. She underwent ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: After decompression surgery, lower limb pain improves more quickly, while numbness takes longer to resolve (numbness: indicates that the nerves were already damaged prior to surgery). It is advisable to increase the dosage of vitamin B and medications for blood circulation...[Read More] Post-Microdiscectomy: Persistent Numbness in Buttocks and Feet Explained
Understanding Lumbar Fractures: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Medical Consultation for Fracture of the Fifth Lumbar Vertebra I am experiencing unexplained pain and numbness in my thigh. An initial X-ray examination at the hospital suggests a fracture of the fifth lumbar vertebra, and further MRI imaging is needed for confirmation. Since I a...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: What you referred to as a "fracture of the fifth vertebra" is likely a "vertebral arch fracture." If that is the case, it is generally congenital for someone your age, but it may also be combined with acquired injuries, strain, or poor posture. If you a...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Fractures: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
How Long Does Subdural Hematoma Take to Liquefy After Injury?
How long does it take for a hematoma from a subdural hemorrhage to liquefy? My father is 79 years old. On July 6th, he was hit by a car while riding his motorcycle and was pinned under his own motorcycle. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet and was conscious at the scene, suffer...
Dr. Zhao Shaoqing Reply:
Hello: Generally, a hematoma from a subdural hemorrhage will liquefy and be absorbed in about three weeks, after which a follow-up CT scan can be performed in the outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] How Long Does Subdural Hematoma Take to Liquefy After Injury?
Post-Biopsy Pain and Numbness: Understanding Nerve Injury and Recovery
Severe pain at the surgical site and intense numbness after the biopsy procedure? My father is 64 years old and has a long history of smoking, betel nut chewing, and alcohol consumption. Recently, he discovered a long protrusion in the left groin area. After going to the hospital...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
You should ask the surgeon whether any nerves were damaged during the biopsy, as the extent of the injury varies and the treatment will differ accordingly.[Read More] Post-Biopsy Pain and Numbness: Understanding Nerve Injury and Recovery
Could a Brain Tumor Cause Leg Numbness and Low Blood Pressure?
Does a brain tumor affect "numbness and tingling in the legs" and "low blood pressure"? Hello Dr. Chang, my father is 61 years old. Last July, he began experiencing tingling and numbness in his feet and calves, like being pricked by needles. An MRI determined ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed physical examination and imaging reports, it is not possible to determine if there is a correlation.[Read More] Could a Brain Tumor Cause Leg Numbness and Low Blood Pressure?
Exploring Non-Surgical Treatments for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Lumbar spondylolisthesis Hello, Doctor. I was in a car accident on May 19, and my bones healed by June 30. I started experiencing numbness and pain in my legs from my waist to my thighs, calves, and feet, along with frequent soreness in my lower back. I then visited a neurosurgeo...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Lumbar spondylolisthesis with nerve compression, if it causes severe pain, difficulty walking, or even paralysis and bowel or bladder incontinence, requires early surgical intervention. If the symptoms are milder, conservative treatment options may be attempted, such as lu...[Read More] Exploring Non-Surgical Treatments for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Post-Surgery Pain Management After Lumbosacral Dissociation Surgery
Postoperative care after vertebral arch dislocation surgery? After previously falling on my butt due to an unstable chair, I have been experiencing soreness and pain in my legs, which is more pronounced when sitting. The discomfort is felt in my thighs, calves, and the joints in ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, as you mentioned: "Last month, I had surgery with steel pins and bone grafting..." For discomfort issues after surgery, it is strongly recommended to follow up with the original surgeon. If there is no improvement post-surgery and you still have concerns, please ...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain Management After Lumbosacral Dissociation Surgery
Post-Surgery Leg Cramps: Understanding Causes and Solutions After Disc Surgery
Post-operative muscle cramps in the right leg following a herniated disc surgery? Hello Doctor: My father is 73 years old. After undergoing surgery for a herniated disc last month, he has been experiencing intermittent cramps and spasms in his right leg about two weeks post-opera...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If you are unable to improve with the treatment from your original surgeon, you may consider obtaining pre-operative MRI copies and consulting with another neurosurgeon. Wishing you the best. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang[Read More] Post-Surgery Leg Cramps: Understanding Causes and Solutions After Disc Surgery
Post-Accident Nerve Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery in the Foot
After the car accident, there is cramping and tingling pain in the sole and peripheral nerves of the left foot? Hello Doctor: In February 2021, I was involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in a fracture of the left femur, which impacted the hip bone and caused a dislocat...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon and arrange for a nerve conduction study. Best wishes. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Post-Accident Nerve Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery in the Foot
Understanding Pain from Herniated Discs, Bone Spurs, and Weather Changes
Bone spur, slippage, herniated disc? Hello, Dr. Lai. I would like to ask if conditions such as herniated discs, bone spurs, and spondylolisthesis can cause pain during changes in weather, like when it rains or gets cold? Additionally, can lying down or sitting still also lead to ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms described, it seems that your family member may have a lumbar spine issue. Conditions such as bone spurs, spondylolisthesis, or herniated discs within the lumbar spine can potentially compress nerves or lead to structural instability, which may cause ...[Read More] Understanding Pain from Herniated Discs, Bone Spurs, and Weather Changes
Understanding Lower Left Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Left lower back pain? Hello, doctor. I have lower back pain and went to see an orthopedic specialist. I also had an X-ray done, and the doctor said the cause of the pain is inflammation of the nerves due to prolonged standing or sitting. It cannot be completely cured and can only...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: General lower back pain is often related to lumbar spine issues. If it's your first occurrence, you can try rest, lumbar support, medication, and physical therapy. If it recurs or symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon. If a specific lesion is con...[Read More] Understanding Lower Left Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Post-Discectomy Complications: Understanding Nerve Adhesions and Recovery
Postoperative Issues Following Discectomy In September 2020, my father was admitted to the emergency room due to acute pain from a herniated disc (L4/L5) and underwent a discectomy with the placement of a spacer. Immediately after the surgery, his symptoms improved significantly,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your father's nerves may have pathological changes. There are many possibilities regarding the nature of these changes. It is advisable to first discuss this with the physician who performed the original surgery. If there is no improvement, you can obtain copies of th...[Read More] Post-Discectomy Complications: Understanding Nerve Adhesions and Recovery
Understanding Left Foot and Spine Issues: Neurological Insights
Left foot and spine issues? Hello Doctor, last November, I felt a bit of soreness and weakness in my left foot's ring and little toes, so I sought medical attention. The doctor said that the nerve conduction study showed no abnormalities. However, in the past couple of days,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
1. If the angle of scoliosis is too large, it may lead to pelvic misalignment, hip joint dysfunction, and an unbalanced gait, which can subsequently cause abnormal movement in one leg. 2. Regarding the sensation of your left foot's ring and little toes feeling slightly sore...[Read More] Understanding Left Foot and Spine Issues: Neurological Insights
Numbness in Left Pinky Toe: Possible Nerve Damage After Long Walk?
The sensation on the outer side of the left little toe has diminished? Previously, I walked for an extended period in one day, and at that time, I only experienced foot pain and soreness. Starting the next day, I noticed that the outer side of my left little toe seemed to have so...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it is suspected to be peripheral fasciitis or neuritis. It is recommended to apply heat or soak in warm water (be careful not to burn yourself) for one week. If there is no improvement, please consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Best wishes. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao...[Read More] Numbness in Left Pinky Toe: Possible Nerve Damage After Long Walk?
Post-Surgery Complications After Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Patient's Experience
Postoperative Issues After Spinal Spondylolisthesis Surgery Three years ago, I underwent surgery on my lumbar spine at the L4-L5 levels. Currently, I need to wear compression stockings for support in order to walk. I also frequently experience urinary incontinence and require med...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Although you have worked hard to write a lot, I need more information for evaluation and reasoning. Since I cannot see the patient or the imaging directly, I can only suggest that you return for a follow-up appointment with the original surgeon to discuss your concerns. If...[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications After Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Patient's Experience
Post-Surgery Nerve Pain: Struggling to Walk After Spinal Fusion
Post-operative nerve pain from the groin to the right leg, resulting in inability to walk? Hello Doctor, I am 49 years old and have undergone my third spinal surgery. (The date of the second surgery was August 7, 2017, at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.) Diagnosis: M4806 lu...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
This cannot be answered; if symptoms that were not present before the surgery appear after the procedure, it should still be considered a physician-related issue. It is advisable to seek a consultation at another hospital for further evaluation.[Read More] Post-Surgery Nerve Pain: Struggling to Walk After Spinal Fusion
Understanding Left Leg Nerve Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
The nerves in the left leg are particularly sensitive? Recently, I have been feeling a lightness in my left leg every day. Compared to my right leg, it feels particularly sensitive, with intermittent sensations that are neither painful nor numb. It feels like my left leg is const...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It may be a lumbar nerve issue. I recommend consulting with a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you at Changhua Hospital, Neurosurgery Department, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Left Leg Nerve Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pediatric Concussions: Symptoms and Next Steps for Parents
Concussion in children One week ago, my 7-year-old son fell out of bed while sleeping and hit his head. He experienced some dizziness and vomiting that morning. The emergency department only performed an X-ray, which showed no abnormalities. After returning home, he did not vomit...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The symptoms you described are not typical of a cerebral hemorrhage, and theoretically, there should be no issues related to brain bleeding or nerve compression. If you have any questions or concerns, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for an examinatio...[Read More] Understanding Pediatric Concussions: Symptoms and Next Steps for Parents
Numbness in Left Thumb and Index Finger: Possible Causes and Relief Tips
Numbness in the left thumb and index finger? Initially, I thought the neck stiffness was nothing serious. After a week, the pain in my neck has decreased, but I am experiencing some numbness in my left thumb and index finger. When I massage my shoulders, the left shoulder feels l...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is suspected to be a cervical spine issue, most commonly a cervical disc herniation that compresses the nerves. 2. Reduce the forward head posture. Temporarily wear a cervical collar. Apply heat to the shoulders and neck daily, and perform neck rehabilitation exercis...[Read More] Numbness in Left Thumb and Index Finger: Possible Causes and Relief Tips
Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, three years ago I had an MRI that showed a mild herniation of the intervertebral disc between the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae, which caused some nerve discomfort in my right leg. However, I did not experience any recurrence until recently. In the pas...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that you have a herniated disc compressing the nerve, leading to recurrent symptoms. You should consult another neurosurgeon who has arranged for an MRI. Wishing you the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options