Understanding Shoulder, Neck, and Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
Shoulder, neck, and back issues? Hello, doctor. Due to my long-term computer use and incorrect posture, I initially experienced sharp pain in my right shoulder, which later progressed to complete numbness in the skin. My neck has also become swollen and stiff for several years. A...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You should see a rehabilitation specialist for physical therapy. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain proper posture and reduce the amount of time spent using the computer, as these are typical symptoms of shoulder and neck pain.[Read More] Understanding Shoulder, Neck, and Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
Understanding Herniated Discs: Pain Relief and Physical Therapy Insights
Intervertebral disc herniation issues? I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask everyone a question. I am a 33-year-old male, and on July 21, I experienced nerve pain in my buttocks and thighs for the first time in my life. The sensation felt similar to stretchin...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. You are absolutely right. 2. The rate of patients requiring surgical treatment is indeed low; most cases improve with conservative treatment. 3. It is unnecessary.[Read More] Understanding Herniated Discs: Pain Relief and Physical Therapy Insights
Post-Spinal Fracture: Can I Switch to a Different Back Brace?
Issues with back braces after lumbar vertebral fractures? Hello, I was involved in a car accident in mid-May that resulted in a comminuted fracture of the twelfth thoracic vertebra and the first lumbar vertebra, which compressed my nerves. I underwent surgery the day after the ac...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The fixation point of this type of back brace is too low, making it more suitable for fractures below the second lumbar vertebra. It is advisable to return for a follow-up consultation with your physician. Thank you![Read More] Post-Spinal Fracture: Can I Switch to a Different Back Brace?
Understanding Left Foot Pinky Toe Issues: Causes and Solutions
Regarding the issue with the left little toe? Hello, Doctor Shi: I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask about an issue concerning my left foot's little toe (please see the images at the links provided). I noticed a sudden change in my left little toe in mid-May. ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It could be caused by shoe compression, and switching to a wider pair of shoes may be helpful.[Read More] Understanding Left Foot Pinky Toe Issues: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort Behind the Knee: Understanding Leg Pain and Weakness
Discomfort is felt at the back of the knee where the thigh connects to the calf when straightening the leg, and there are times when walking suddenly feels weak? Last week, I played basketball, but it wasn't too intense. After taking a shower and waking up the next day, I no...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
It is essential to warm up adequately before engaging in any exercise, and wearing appropriate clothing and footwear is also necessary. As for the symptoms, they may indicate tendinitis or arthritis. Although it is not very severe and can be alleviated with rest, the recurring ep...[Read More] Discomfort Behind the Knee: Understanding Leg Pain and Weakness
Understanding Pain from Lower Back to Outer Thigh: Causes and Solutions
Right lower back to the outer thigh? Hello Doctor, I started jogging on December 1, 2015, and everything was going well until April of this year. At the end of April, I ran for an hour continuously, and the next day I felt pain in the upper right side of my lower back (possibly t...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
Tendinitis is possible, and this condition may not be visible on X-rays. Diagnosis primarily relies on medical history and physical examination. Based on your description, it seems to resolve on its own without any treatment, but it recurs. It is still advisable to undergo furthe...[Read More] Understanding Pain from Lower Back to Outer Thigh: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Tailbone Pain: Causes and Solutions for Seniors
Coccyx pain when sitting down and standing up, but no pain when standing or walking? Hello Doctor: I have a question regarding my father's coccyx issue. He is about 65 years old, and recently he has been experiencing pain in the coccyx when transitioning from standing to sit...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
Based on the description, it could possibly be myofascial pain syndrome in the lower back, but it is important to rule out any spinal issues. It is recommended to visit a nearby hospital or clinic for an examination to determine if further medication or physical therapy is needed...[Read More] Understanding Tailbone Pain: Causes and Solutions for Seniors
Understanding Ischemic Necrosis of the Toe: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery
Ischemic necrosis of the toes Hello, about a year ago, while I was traveling in another city, I wore a pair of high sandals (the overall height, not just the front or back being higher) for a while. I felt a slight stabbing pain in my right foot but thought it was due to somethin...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The necrosis of the second metatarsal bone in the foot is a relatively rare case. If the pain does not improve, the physician recommends surgery. You might consider seeking opinions from other doctors. Without seeing your X-ray, I cannot provide a complete assessment. Avascular n...[Read More] Understanding Ischemic Necrosis of the Toe: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery
Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions After 10 Years of Discomfort
Lumbar issues? Hello, I have been suffering from lower back pain for a long time, for 10 years now. I have visited various medical institutions and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, and I have undergone X-rays and MRIs of the left, right, and front sides, as well as ele...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, based on your letter, if all kinds of examinations have been conducted without any significant findings, it is likely a case of simple ligament inflammation. This is often related to the patient's work or lifestyle habits. Generally, it is most commonly seen in patien...[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions After 10 Years of Discomfort
Understanding Rib Injuries: Pain, Swelling, and Recovery Tips
If you get punched in the ribs during a fight, it can cause swelling and pain? Hello, Doctor. Two weeks ago, I got into a fight with my friends and was punched in the ribs. After that, I thought I would correct my spine, so I rolled on a foam roller. However, I heard two cracking...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is possible that the ribs in the chest wall have been compressed without being fractured, which does not mean that there is no bruising. Resting will help improve the condition. You can take some pain relievers to alleviate the pain. Hanging from a pull-up bar does not help wi...[Read More] Understanding Rib Injuries: Pain, Swelling, and Recovery Tips
Post-Procedure Pain Management After Vertebroplasty: What to Do?
Post-operative bone cement procedure? Hello, my mother has undergone vertebroplasty for a compression fracture of the spine and it has been half a month since the procedure. Initially, our family was very happy because her quality of life had improved. However, today she suddenly...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You can lie down and rest for a while, and if necessary, take pain relief medication. If you are still feeling very uncomfortable, it is advisable to go to the emergency room for evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Post-Procedure Pain Management After Vertebroplasty: What to Do?
Understanding Post-Operative Pain After Bone Cement Surgery
Post-operative management of bone cement? Thank you, Dr. Shih, for your enthusiastic response. I would like to ask why there was improvement for the first month after the bone cement procedure, but now the symptoms have recurred. My mother mentioned that she reached up to grab a ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is possible that the patient has strained their back or experienced another vertebral fracture, especially if they already have severe osteoporosis. In the future, they may need to take medication or receive injections to improve their osteoporosis condition.[Read More] Understanding Post-Operative Pain After Bone Cement Surgery
Knee Injury Symptoms: Numbness in Calf and Foot Explained
After a knee injury, there may be a sensation of numbness in the back of the leg and the foot? Hello, doctor. Over a month ago, I experienced persistent pain in my knee and sought treatment through massage therapy. However, during the session, it seems that the treatment was not ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
As you described, the pressure is unlikely to cause a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, but it is possible that the lateral nerve of the knee joint is being compressed. This nerve is called the common peroneal nerve, which innervates the outer side of the calf and the fo...[Read More] Knee Injury Symptoms: Numbness in Calf and Foot Explained
Understanding Chronic Severe Chest Pain: A Comprehensive Guide
Regarding long-term severe chest pain? Hello doctor, since I can remember, around elementary school age, I have been experiencing chest pain symptoms, occurring three to four times a day, lasting from half an hour to an hour each time, with a specific pain point in the left chest...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Chest pain generally falls under the scope of cardiology or pulmonology. You may want to consult with other specialists for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Severe Chest Pain: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Ligament Inflammation: Recovery Time and Swimming Safety
Ligament inflammation Hello Doctor, I participated in a swimming competition a month ago. A few days after the competition, I unfortunately strained my right arm during practice. After a week, thinking it had improved, I went back to practice, but the pain worsened. An orthopedic...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
A ligament injury requires at least six weeks of rest, and sometimes it may take eight to twelve weeks to gradually heal. Therefore, if there is still pain and weakness, it is advisable to refrain from exercising for the time being.[Read More] Understanding Ligament Inflammation: Recovery Time and Swimming Safety
Understanding Knee Discomfort After ACL Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Knee discomfort? I underwent surgery for a right knee anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear last September. After the surgery, I sometimes have difficulty fully extending my knee, and it tends to remain slightly bent. At that time, I was putting most of my weight on my left leg, ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It may be due to overloading of the left knee, but it's still important to see a physician to check the tightness of the ligaments. The doctor can perform a physical examination to assess for any instability by applying pressure from the front and back or from the inner and ...[Read More] Understanding Knee Discomfort After ACL Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Disc Herniation and Nerve Root Compression Symptoms
Herniated disc with radiculopathy Hello, Doctor. In January, I had an MRI at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, and the doctor diagnosed me with a herniated disc and radiculopathy. Then in March, I underwent electromyography and nerve conduction studies at Tri-Service General Hospita...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
As an orthopedic surgeon and someone who has personally experienced severe disc herniation, I can share that during flare-ups, I was unable to bend over to put on my pants and shoes, and I couldn't get out of bed directly; I had to roll over first. The car seat was too low, ...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation and Nerve Root Compression Symptoms
Understanding Anterior Pelvic Tilt: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
Anterior pelvic tilt Hello, my body type is one that doesn't gain weight easily, but after the New Year, I suddenly experienced rapid weight gain. Initially, I thought it might be due to stress, so I didn't pay much attention. However, despite dieting and going to the g...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You can go to the hospital to see a doctor and have an X-ray taken to determine if there is any misalignment.[Read More] Understanding Anterior Pelvic Tilt: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
Understanding Abnormal Thumb Joint Mobility: Causes and Solutions
Abnormalities of the thumb joint? Hello, doctor! I have a question that has been bothering me. The joint at the base of my left thumb (the one closest to the palm) can move back and forth, while my right hand is normal. For example, when I make a thumbs-up gesture, my left thumb ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It could be due to an injury. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to consult a physician.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Thumb Joint Mobility: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures: Pros and Cons of Cement Injection Treatment
Vertebral compression fracture Hello, my mother is 74 years old. Two months ago, she suddenly experienced back pain while pulling a blanket. Although the pain has slightly eased since then, she still feels uncomfortable and experiences pain when getting up. After examination by a...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The use of bone cement injection therapy can quickly achieve a pain-free state, significantly improving quality of life. However, if bone cement is inadvertently injected outside the vertebrae, it can lead to complications such as nerve damage, which can be fatal. Fortunately, su...[Read More] Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures: Pros and Cons of Cement Injection Treatment