Post-Spinal Surgery: Why Can't My Dad Move His Ankles and Toes?
Inability to move the ankle and toes following spinal surgery? Hello Doctor: My father underwent minimally invasive surgery for lumbar spondylolisthesis at levels L3, L4, and L5 on June 13, where screws were placed. However, since the surgery, he has been unable to move his legs,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The symptoms may suggest involvement of the L4 and L5 nerve roots, resembling a temporary malfunction, possibly due to nerve edema or adaptation issues to a new environment. 2. It is recommended to consult with the original surgeon regarding the need for further examina...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Why Can't My Dad Move His Ankles and Toes?
Navigating Disability Claims for Multiple Health Issues: A Guide
Please consult regarding the application for disability due to multiple conditions such as scoliosis, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), and psychological issues, along with related recommendations? # Medical History Summary Scoliosis: 58 degrees, unable to sit or stand for...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, 1. It may be possible to assess the applicability of the "Disability Assessment Form," specifically Category I or Category VII. However, it is necessary to have a fixed long-term follow-up for a certain period before a specialist physic...[Read More] Navigating Disability Claims for Multiple Health Issues: A Guide
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
Post-Operative Consultation for L5-S1 Fusion Surgery Complications
Postoperative Consultation for L5-S1 Surgery Hello Dr. Lai, I previously underwent an anterior spinal fusion surgery due to grade II spondylolisthesis at the L5-S1 level. (Before the surgery, I experienced persistent pain on the left side, while the right side had no symptoms.)...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Indeed, some individuals may experience symptoms on the opposite side after a dislocation is reduced, which could be due to temporary discomfort in the new environment following the renovation of an old house. 2. It would be advisable to discuss this further with the or...[Read More] Post-Operative Consultation for L5-S1 Fusion Surgery Complications
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
Risks of Spine Surgery in Patients with VRE Infection
VRE Infection and Spinal Surgery My mother has a compression fracture that is pressing on her spinal nerves, resulting in paralysis of her lower body. She has been hospitalized for over a month. The doctor has recommended a decompression surgery with the placement of bone screws....
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Performing surgery in the presence of an infection increases the risk of wound infection and bacterial dissemination, potentially leading to sepsis. However, if there is nerve compression resulting in lower limb paralysis, surgery may be the only option for improvement. Fr...[Read More] Risks of Spine Surgery in Patients with VRE Infection
Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking Solutions
Postoperative care after lumbar disc herniation surgery? Dear Doctor, I underwent two surgeries in 2020 for L3-4-5 lumbar spine stabilization with interbody fusion devices. My recovery was good, and three months post-surgery, I returned to delivering food. After nearly a year, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If the damage is severe before surgery, the postoperative recovery may not be ideal. Your condition is more complex. We need to review MRI and other imaging studies to provide you with a clearer assessment and recommendations. You can bring a series of MRIs for a consultat...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking 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-Endoscopic Spine Surgery Symptoms and Recovery
Endoscopic spinal surgery Before undergoing endoscopic spinal surgery, the patient experienced numbness and pain in the right side of the lower back, hip, and leg, resulting in a limp while walking. After the surgery, the symptoms on the right side completely improved. However, o...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed medical history, examination reports, and surgical procedure specifics, it is difficult to provide an answer.[Read More] Understanding Post-Endoscopic Spine Surgery Symptoms and Recovery
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
Post-Discectomy Recovery: Managing Nerve Pain and Weakness
Postoperative care following discectomy? Hello Doctor: I underwent my first spinal surgery in mid-October 2022. After the surgery, the pain caused by my spine completely disappeared. However, in August 2023, I experienced symptoms of soreness, numbness, and pain in both legs agai...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to engage in serious rehabilitation for 3 to 6 months. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Post-Discectomy Recovery: Managing Nerve Pain and Weakness
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 Upper Back and Rib Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Solutions
Pain in the upper back and rib area? Hello, my mother is 66 years old. She was first diagnosed with COVID-19 on December 9, 2022, and tested negative on December 19. During her infection, she experienced severe throat pain and loss of smell, which have not yet recovered. She has ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that there may be a thoracolumbar compression fracture or other conditions. It is recommended to consult a spine specialist surgeon. An MRI evaluation is advised. Wishing you a speedy recovery. By Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine Surgery, Changhua Hos...[Read More] Understanding Upper Back and Rib Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Solutions
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