Understanding Finger Stiffness and Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Finger stiffness and pain inquiry? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my fingers. Initially, when I wake up in the morning, they feel stiff. After two weeks, the stiffness turned into pain, particularly around the nails and the first joint of my fingers. However, once I move...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Hello, sometimes the sensation of stiffness in the hands may be related to cervical spine issues. Carpal tunnel syndrome commonly presents with numbness in the fingers or palm, and may occasionally extend to the forearm, but it is rare to manifest as localized joint tenderness. I...[Read More] Understanding Finger Stiffness and Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Severe Lower Back Pain: When to See a Neurosurgeon or Internist?
Back pain I would like to ask you, I have been experiencing severe back pain for the past 1 to 2 months, specifically in the lower back area. Whenever I lift something or have a slight hunch, my lower back hurts a lot. Should I see a neurosurgeon or an internist? Do I need to see...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Xiao Rou, There are many causes of back pain, and it is important to consider any events that may have occurred prior to the onset of pain (such as exercise, trauma, or lifting heavy objects). The issue may be related to muscles, the spine, or intervertebral discs, with a v...[Read More] Severe Lower Back Pain: When to See a Neurosurgeon or Internist?
Understanding Lipomas: Risks, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Questions about lipomas? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing mild numbness in my left foot for a year, occasionally accompanied by a tingling sensation. After undergoing an MRI, it was discovered that I have a lipoma on my spine. The doctor mentioned that surgery is the only t...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
1. The chance of a lipoma shrinking is low; there may be other underlying reasons. 2. If the tumor enlarges and compresses the spine and nerves, it is indeed possible. 3. The risk considerations vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Sincerely, Dr. Zhang Yuan-chi, ...[Read More] Understanding Lipomas: Risks, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Shoulder Blade Pain: Is It Related to Spinal Injury?
Localized pain in the scapula? Hello Doctor: My spinal injury is located at the fourth vertebra above the pelvis, which was discovered through X-ray examination following a car accident twelve years ago (no surgical intervention was performed). Over the years, I have only experie...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on what you have described, it seems to be an orthopedic issue. If the pain persists, you may visit the outpatient clinic to see if further examination is necessary. Best wishes.[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Blade Pain: Is It Related to Spinal Injury?
Safe Surgical Options for Meningioma in Diabetic Patients
Which type of surgery should be used for meningiomas? Dear Dr. Chang, My mother is 60 years old and has recently been diagnosed with a meningioma following an MRI examination. Additionally, she has calcification in her cervical spine, and the meningioma is severely compressing h...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Meningiomas are generally benign tumors that typically grow quite slowly. In elderly patients with small meningiomas that do not present significant symptoms, observation with follow-up examinations every six months to a year may be considered. However, if there is compression of...[Read More] Safe Surgical Options for Meningioma in Diabetic Patients
Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
The intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1 have herniated and have been surgically treated? Hello, Dr. Zhang. I have suffered from a car accident resulting in herniation of the intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1, which severely affects my daily life. I have undergone rehabi...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Chen: Regarding your questions, my responses are as follows: 1. Both the fixation screws and the support frame are methods for stabilizing the spine; they simply have different developmental timelines, and there is no theoretical error in this. 2. It is not possible to deter...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
Understanding Post-Surgery Fever and Complications in Spine Fracture Patients
Confusion Hello! I have a perplexing question. A patient fell from a height and sustained an L3 burst fracture. After being admitted to the hospital, they underwent surgery for internal fixation. On the third day post-surgery, the patient began to experience fever. Despite multip...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Lun, Hello, when considering infection issues, there are many factors to take into account. The most common sites are still the lungs, urinary tract, and surgical sites. It is also important to consider the pattern of fever; if it has led to myelitis, then general antib...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Fever and Complications in Spine Fracture Patients
Understanding Ankle Mobility Issues: Nerve Damage and Diagnosis Confusion
I am unable to dorsiflex my left ankle! Hello Dr. Ding, On July 1st of this year, due to work requirements, I sat on a very low stool with my legs positioned backward on either side of the stool, causing my calves to touch my thighs. I maintained this position for an entire day ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Feng: Based on the information you provided, it seems more likely to be a peripheral nerve issue; however, there may also be a concurrent problem with a herniated disc compressing the nerve. Since I have not personally examined you, I cannot make any definitive judgments. I ...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Mobility Issues: Nerve Damage and Diagnosis Confusion
Understanding Bone Cement Injection for Spinal Compression Fractures
Regarding bone cement? Hello: My mother is over 70 years old and two years ago, she suffered a lumbar compression fracture after accidentally falling while stepping back. The pain was unbearable, and after being treated by an orthopedic specialist and resting, the pain has subsid...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: We recommend that you visit the Spine Orthopedics Clinic at our hospital to see Dr. Wang Zikang, who will assess your condition and provide you with accurate answers.[Read More] Understanding Bone Cement Injection for Spinal Compression Fractures
Understanding Finger Numbness and Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Numbness and tingling in the fingers? My colleague suddenly felt numbness in his fingers while lifting a heavy load. He described it as a sensation of something constantly pricking his fingers. This feeling started after moving the items, and he has never experienced anything lik...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Xiao Ju: It is recommended that you visit a neurosurgeon for a detailed examination, as it may be related to cervical spine issues. Wishing you health, happiness, and safety. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Attending Physician, Department of Neurosurgery, Taoyuan General Hosp...[Read More] Understanding Finger Numbness and Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Chest Pain Radiating to Arm While Sleeping: Nerve or Thoracic Issue?
Chest pain that extends to the arm during breathing? If you experience chest pain while sleeping on your left side, and the pain radiates to your entire left arm, could it be a nerve issue or a problem related to the thoracic cavity? Thank you for your response, doctor.
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: Your symptoms may indicate a cervical spine issue, and the chest pain cannot be ruled out as a potential heart condition. It is recommended that you visit an outpatient clinic for a detailed examination and diagnosis.[Read More] Chest Pain Radiating to Arm While Sleeping: Nerve or Thoracic Issue?
Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Sciatica Hello Dr. Chiu, I recently received your response regarding my sciatica issue, and the MRI images have also come out. My doctor mentioned that I do not have a herniated disc; however, there is a noticeably large cyst in the sacral area that is compressing the sciatic n...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Are you diagnosed with syringomyelia? Generally, it does not worsen. I believe you should trust your treating physician, as they have conducted examinations and should have the best understanding of your condition. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Is There a Connection Between Cervical Spine Issues and Sudden Hearing Loss?
Is there a relationship between hearing loss and cervical spine issues? Hello Doctor, I experienced sudden sensorineural hearing loss on October 13th last year. I visited hospitals including Tri-Service General Hospital, National Taiwan University Hospital, and Chang Gung Memoria...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Sudden hearing loss is generally not related to cervical spine issues; it is usually due to vascular problems (similar to a stroke) and is considered an emergency in otolaryngology, requiring urgent treatment. There are many causes of headaches, and it cannot be determined...[Read More] Is There a Connection Between Cervical Spine Issues and Sudden Hearing Loss?
Is It Sciatica? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking the Right Specialist
Is this sciatica? About six months ago, I experienced unexplained pain at the tail end of my spine without any strong impact or injury. After seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for massage and acupuncture, the pain at the tailbone subsided. However, I later began ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on what you have described, it is possible that you are experiencing sciatica. It is best to visit an outpatient clinic for an examination. Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu[Read More] Is It Sciatica? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking the Right Specialist
Post-Surgery Risks and Complications of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Patient's Concern
Lumbar disc herniation (L2, L4) has been surgically treated due to nerve compression. If a recurrence occurs requiring another surgery, what are the potential postoperative complications, and is the risk of a second surgery high? Thank you! I am a 34-year-old female who has under...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Ms. Chuang: Hello! Due to a herniated disc (L2-L4) compressing the nerves, I underwent surgery. The doctor advised against pregnancy. It has been over two years since the surgery, and I have been diligently doing rehabilitation, but my body still feels very weak, with my legs exp...[Read More] Post-Surgery Risks and Complications of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Patient's Concern
Understanding Recurrence Risk of Spinal Injuries After Surgery
The recurrence rate of spinal injuries from car accidents? Hello, Dr. Ding. Three years ago, I had spinal surgery due to an injury from a car accident. Now, I only experience leg soreness when I exert myself too much, but it improves with rehabilitation. Should I avoid excessive ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Due to insufficient information available online for assessment, it is advised not to exert yourself excessively after the injury, and to avoid prolonged standing or sitting. We recommend that you visit our outpatient clinic for a further evaluation by a physician. Sincere...[Read More] Understanding Recurrence Risk of Spinal Injuries After Surgery
Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation and Bone Spurs: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Cervical intervertebral disc herniation Hello, my wife accidentally twisted her neck while exercising. For the first two days, there was not much issue, but later she noticed a tingling sensation in her left arm. The next day, she experienced soreness and warmth at the junction o...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Bone spurs are actually not closely related to your pain. "Cervical disc herniation" refers to the condition where the intervertebral disc in the cervical spine is compressed due to improper use, which can affect the nerves. Your situation seems to be more like t...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation and Bone Spurs: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: What to Watch For After a Head Injury
Concussion Hello Doctor: At the end of last month, I was in a car accident and hit my head, losing consciousness at the scene. My friends tried to wake me for a long time, and it was only when the person responsible for the accident picked me up that I slowly regained consciousne...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you mentioned could potentially be sequelae. However, numbness in the hands and neck pain may indicate a cervical spine injury. It is still necessary to have a personal consultation for a better diagnosis. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: What to Watch For After a Head Injury
Understanding Symptoms of Herniated Discs: When to Seek Treatment
Inquiry about symptoms of herniated disc? Hello, Doctor: I was initially diagnosed with symptoms of a herniated disc at the end of last year. It wasn't until November of last year that the military medical examination at the 804 Military Hospital confirmed my herniated disc ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Since I have not personally examined you or reviewed your imaging studies, I cannot provide specific recommendations regarding your herniated disc. However, concerning rehabilitation and playing sports, if you feel more comfortable after rehabilitation, you may continue; o...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Herniated Discs: When to Seek Treatment
Understanding Unusual Head Pressure: A Neurosurgical Perspective
A strange sensation? Hello, doctor: During my university years, as the academic pressure became less intense, I found that my sleep duration increased significantly. I could sleep until 11 AM if I had no classes, and even take a nap in the afternoon without any issues. However, I...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: You may be experiencing symptoms due to overuse of your cervical spine, possibly from staring at the television or computer screen. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid prolonged standing or sitting, and refrain from maintaining a fixed posture for too long, as this...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Head Pressure: A Neurosurgical Perspective