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 Post-Surgery Symptoms After Cervical Spine Injury
Questions After Cervical Spine Surgery Due to Car Accident Hello Doctor: Due to a car accident last November, I experienced compression of the cervical spine from the helmet, resulting in a herniated disc at C3-C7 and spinal cord edema. I underwent a discectomy and fusion surgery...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Nerve conduction studies can help clarify your concerns.[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Cervical Spine Injury
Post-Spinal Surgery Pain: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Postoperative pain after spinal surgery I have rheumatoid arthritis and after undergoing L4-L5 spinal surgery last July, I still experience soreness, numbness, pain, stiffness, tightness, and weakness from my right hip to my calf, and I still need a walker. Is this a phenomenon o...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your condition of neural adhesion is just one possible cause. There may be other reasons as well. I recommend that you bring your pre-operative and post-operative X-rays and MRI for an in-person consultation. If it is not convenient for you to come to Changhua Hospital, pl...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery Pain: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
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
Which Specialist to Consult for Persistent Ear and Facial Numbness?
If you are experiencing numbness behind the ear, which specialist should you consult? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing numbness behind my ear for several days. I feel numbness on my ear and the nearby scalp when I wear glasses or a mask. I usually wash my hair by leaning fo...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that the issue may be related to the cervical spine, facial or oral occlusion, ear, or neuromuscular fascia. A doctor needs to evaluate and differentiate these conditions in person. You may want to first consult with a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. Best wi...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Persistent Ear and Facial Numbness?
Which Specialist Should You See for Ear and Facial Numbness?
If you are experiencing numbness behind the ear, which specialist should you consult? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing numbness behind my ear for several days. I feel numbness on my ear and the surrounding scalp when I put on glasses or a mask. I usually wash my hair by lea...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that the issue may be related to the cervical spine, facial or oral occlusion, ear, or neuromuscular fascia. A doctor needs to conduct a personal examination to differentiate these conditions. You may want to first consult with a neurologist or a neurosurge...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You See for Ear and Facial Numbness?
Should You Remove Spinal Fixation After Six Months of Healing?
Intervertebral disc fixation The intervertebral disc has been removed, and an artificial disc and internal fixation have been placed. It has been in place for six months and has not fully healed. Should the internal fixation be removed?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The information you provided is too brief. It is recommended to bring the original pre- and post-operative MRI and X-rays. After the consultation, a reassessment should be conducted to determine why healing has not yet occurred. Is it necessary to remove the original in...[Read More] Should You Remove Spinal Fixation After Six Months of Healing?
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
Post-Surgery Recovery Insights for Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment
Postoperative care after disc herniation surgery? 1. Disease Name: Lumbar Disc Herniation at the L4-L5 Level 2. Surgery Name: Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy 3. Reason for Surgery: To relieve nerve compression On December 27, the surgery was performed due to a right low...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: After your surgery, your original symptoms have improved, and the wound has healed, which indicates a good recovery. Please continue to use lumbar support for protection. If you are still concerned, feel free to schedule an earlier follow-up appointment. Best wishes, Dr. C...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Insights for Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment
Post-Surgery Pain Management: Understanding Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Hello Dr. Lai: Issues after intervertebral disc herniation surgery? Dear Director Lai, I apologize for taking up your time with this lengthy message, but I would like to know what the next steps should be. 1. After waking up from surgery, I experienced pain in my left lower bac...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. After lying flat for an extended period, the compressed nerves can become more vulnerable. Under certain conditions, poor blood circulation in the surrounding area may trigger pain and numbness, which is not uncommon. You can apply warmth through heat packs, adjust yo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain Management: Understanding Discomfort After Disc Surgery
Understanding Disc Herniation: When to Seek MRI for Back Pain Relief
Herniated disc Hello doctor, I have been experiencing persistent lower back pain, which is so severe that it even hurts to walk. My shoulders and neck are also very tense, and when I feel discomfort in my neck, it can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Additionally, I have...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: You may have nerve compression in your cervical spine and also have lesions in your lumbar spine. If you have already tried conservative treatment along with injection therapy without improvement, it is recommended to consider scheduling an MRI for further evaluation. Best...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: When to Seek MRI for Back Pain Relief
Understanding Irregularities in the Occipital Region: A Neurosurgical Perspective
Regarding the issue of irregularities in the occipital region? Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I noticed some irregularities in the center of the back of my head (specifically at the intersection of a line extending horizontally from the upper part of my ear and a line extendin...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. As your previous orthopedic doctor mentioned, it should be a normal skull. 2. A CT scan has also been performed, and if the doctor determines it to be normal, you can feel more at ease. 3. If you are still concerned, consider consulting a neurosurgeon for another evalua...[Read More] Understanding Irregularities in the Occipital Region: A Neurosurgical Perspective
Post-Surgery Exercise Guidelines for Cervical Spine Fusion
Postoperative exercises for cervical spine surgery? Hello, doctor. I had a car accident at the beginning of September and underwent a spinal fusion surgery for the displacement of my sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae. I would like to ask how long after the surgery it would be ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It has been 3 to 4 months since your surgery in September. Theoretically, fusion should have occurred by now. If you were my patient, I would encourage you to return to normal activities and engage in exercise. However, since you are not my patient, I recommend consulting ...[Read More] Post-Surgery Exercise Guidelines for Cervical Spine Fusion
Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Stiffness, Weakness, and Tightness
Post-spinal surgery, experiencing stiffness and weakness in the legs, along with muscle tightness? Hello Dr. Lai! I have rheumatoid arthritis and underwent L4-L5 spinal surgery (with Romeo clamps and health insurance screws) in June 2022 due to pain from slippage. I had another s...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: What you mentioned is all possible, and the treatment options can be considered. However, the key recommendation is to have your doctor arrange for a follow-up MRI for a detailed evaluation, and then plan the subsequent treatment strategy. Best wishes, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, D...[Read More] Post-Spinal Surgery: Addressing Leg Stiffness, Weakness, and Tightness
Understanding Nerve Compression and Surgery Risks in Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical osteophytes compressing nerve edema? Consulting a physician: My mother is experiencing sharp pain in the right side of her back and stiffness in her neck and shoulders. Aside from these symptoms, there are no other issues. However, to clarify the cause of these problems,...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: You are correct, and the doctor is also correct; this is actually a matter of risk assessment and probability (high probability events vs. low probability events). 1. MRI confirms that the nerve is being compressed, causing your mother's symptoms, which is the reali...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Compression and Surgery Risks in Cervical Spondylosis
Managing Neck Pain and Chest Discomfort: Insights from Neurosurgery
Chest pain, back issues? Last week, I visited a neurosurgeon and underwent an MRI. The report is as follows: **Summary Imaging Findings** Multiplanar multisequence MRI of the cervical spine without contrast enhancement shows: - **Alignment**: Grade I retrolisthesis at C4-5 ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Please describe your symptoms to the rehabilitation physician and provide the aforementioned cervical spine MRI report or images to the doctor. Ask for their opinion and request to arrange a rehabilitation program, which will generally focus on cervical traction. Best wish...[Read More] Managing Neck Pain and Chest Discomfort: Insights from Neurosurgery
Managing Post-Car Accident Symptoms: Effective Treatments for Pain Relief
Post-traumatic sequelae from a car accident? I was involved in a car accident in mid-July last year when I was stopped at a red light and was rear-ended. At that moment, my knees hit the trunk of the car, resulting in a blunt injury to my lower back. The next day, my knees were b...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Lower back pain and leg numbness are suspected to be related to lumbar spine conditions. 2. There is a herniation at the fifth lumbar intervertebral disc, and water-cooled radiofrequency treatment could be considered. However, it is recommended to seek medical attention...[Read More] Managing Post-Car Accident Symptoms: Effective Treatments for Pain Relief
Understanding Complications of L3 Spinal Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Misplacement of L3 pedicle screw in lumbar spine surgery? Hello, doctor. My father is 72 years old. Preoperative X-rays showed signs of scoliosis and spondylolisthesis, with complaints of inability to walk for long periods due to lower back pain and numbness in his legs when sitt...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Postoperative follow-up shows that the original symptoms have not improved and have worsened after surgery. If imaging reveals that a steel screw has penetrated the nerve canal, there are no other options but to adjust and perform another surgery (unless the patient is ...[Read More] Understanding Complications of L3 Spinal Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Shoulder and Neck Sounds: When to Seek Medical Advice
Shoulder and neck sound concerns? Recently, I've been experiencing occasional cracking sounds at the junction of my shoulder and cervical spine. Sometimes, even when I move my shoulder or take a deep breath, I hear noises, but it doesn't happen when I only move my neck....
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it is suspected that the joint connecting the shoulder to the cervical spine is producing abnormal sounds. This may be due to being underweight, lack of exercise, and insufficient flexibility. The noise during movement could be attributed to a lack of synovial fluid, simil...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder and Neck Sounds: When to Seek Medical Advice