Recovery Tips for Burst Fractures: Safe Mobility After Spinal Injury
Vertebral fracture Dear Doctor, I hope this message finds you well! I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a "burst fracture of the third cervical vertebra" (with vertebral body collapse of 0.3-0.4 cm). I have been resting at home for 7 weeks now. Most of th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Vertebral fractures typically develop callus around eight weeks and usually heal completely by twelve weeks. Before that, some movement is allowed, as activity can promote faster recovery. You can have an X-ray at eight weeks to check on the healing progress of the fracture.[Read More] Recovery Tips for Burst Fractures: Safe Mobility After Spinal Injury
Understanding Morning Mid-Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Mid-back pain? For the past six months, I have only experienced soreness in my mid-back and upper abdomen while lying in bed during the early morning hours. However, all symptoms disappear upon getting up.
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, pain originating from the stomach and gallbladder is more likely to present with simultaneous pain in the abdomen and back. It is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Morning Mid-Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tips
Thumb issues Hello Doctor, my right thumb's interphalangeal joint started hurting about a week ago, and I would like to ask you some questions: Currently, the symptoms are that when viewed from the back of the hand, the right side of the interphalangeal joint is particularly...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. It could be ligament inflammation. If there is an issue with the bone, an X-ray will be needed to confirm it. 2. You can rest and take some anti-inflammatory medication. 3. Try to avoid using your thumb as much as possible. 4. If there is no improvement after two weeks, consul...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tips
Post-Microdiscectomy Recovery: Addressing Pain and Mobility Issues
Postoperative Issues Following Microscopic Minimally Invasive Discectomy Hello Doctor, I have a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level and underwent microdiscectomy about a month ago. The doctor mentioned that the procedure involved decompression and removal of the nucleus pulposus, a...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Please trust that your attending physician can also schedule an earlier follow-up appointment to discuss whether additional tests and evaluations are necessary. Thank you.[Read More] Post-Microdiscectomy Recovery: Addressing Pain and Mobility Issues
Post-Surgery Swelling and Concerns After Trigger Finger Surgery
Postoperative swelling after trigger finger surgery? Hello Doctor: I underwent outpatient trigger thumb surgery on August 25. After the doctor administered anesthesia, he used a needle for a few seconds and bent my thumb backward, saying it was okay and that I didn't need a ...
Dr. Zhan Xian Reply:
It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with the attending (surgical) physician for evaluation, and to also inquire about rehabilitation-related questions. Thank you.[Read More] Post-Surgery Swelling and Concerns After Trigger Finger Surgery
Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase: Causes and Concerns
Alkaline phosphatase The normal range for alkaline phosphatase is 25-130 U/L, and my level is 132 U/L. My liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, CEA, and CA 19-9, are all normal. I underwent dental implants in March and April of this year, and the procedure is not yet complete...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
A slight elevation in alkaline phosphatase levels is not a concern; it may return to normal after rechecking in three months. If there are significant symptoms from a herniated disc, treatment is necessary; however, if there is no severe pain, conservative management is sufficien...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lumbar Spine Injuries: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Lumbar spine issues Dear Dr. Shih, I hope this message finds you well! I was involved in a car accident on the highway, where I was rear-ended by another vehicle. The emergency assessment diagnosed me with a "burst fracture of the third vertebra," with a 0.3 cm vertebr...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Approximately three months. 2. Three months, because the healing of a fracture takes that long. 3. If the deformity from a vertebral compression fracture is not severe, there typically won't be any long-term complications. After healing, it is important to practice abdomi...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Injuries: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies
Lower back pain and upper back pain? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing this issue for over a month now. When I lie down to sleep, whether on my side or on my back, after about 5-6 hours, I wake up due to pain in the middle of my upper back, making it impossible to continue...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you find a nearby physician for an examination. An X-ray should be taken, and if necessary, an MRI should be performed to check for any nerve damage.[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies
Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Lower back pain and upper back pain? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing this issue for over a month now. When I lie down to sleep, whether on my side or flat, after about 5-6 hours, I wake up due to severe pain in the middle of my upper back, making it impossible to continu...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you find a nearby physician for an examination. An X-ray should be taken, and if necessary, an MRI should be performed to check for any nerve damage.[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Understanding Hip Pain: Causes and Remedies for Discomfort
Bone pain? Since yesterday, I've been experiencing pain in the bone above my buttocks. It hurts when I bend over, lean back, or lie flat. I'm not sure if it's due to poor posture or if it could be related to an incident on the 16th of last month when a family membe...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is possible that the pain is due to poor posture; it is advisable to observe the situation first. If the pain persists, then it would be necessary to see a physician.[Read More] Understanding Hip Pain: Causes and Remedies for Discomfort
Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Compression, and Diagnosis
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, I initially experienced lower back pain that often radiated down to the soles of my feet. Recently, I've been experiencing numbness and pain in my feet after standing for a short period. During my military service physical examination, I underwen...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Most intervertebral disc diseases in young people can be improved through rehabilitation and exercise therapy. If there are significant neurological compression symptoms due to a herniated disc, minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery can be considered, while avoiding the use...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Compression, and Diagnosis
Understanding Hip Plate Removal: Risks and Recovery After Fracture
Removal of hip bone plate? Hello, I initially had a fracture and dislocation of my hip bone, which was later stabilized with metal plates. However, activities like getting up and bending over still affect my daily life, and I am considering having the plates removed. After a foll...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Each individual's condition and recovery process varies. It is recommended to follow up and discuss with the attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hip Plate Removal: Risks and Recovery After Fracture
Flying After a Fracture: Risks and Recommendations for Recovery
Regarding flying with a fracture? Hello, Doctor. I was involved in a traffic accident on June 25, resulting in an open fracture of my left clavicle and fractures of my left ribs from the second to the seventh (concentrated in the back and side). I have undergone plate fixation su...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
The attending physician is the one who understands your condition and recovery the best. If one of their opinions differs, it is advisable for you to assess and weigh the information yourself, or to return for a follow-up consultation with the physician to discuss it further. Tha...[Read More] Flying After a Fracture: Risks and Recommendations for Recovery
Managing Knee Osteoarthritis and Disc Herniation: A Path to Recovery
Knee osteoarthritis and intervertebral disc herniation? Hello Doctor: I visited an orthopedic clinic due to discomfort, and X-ray imaging revealed early-stage knee osteoarthritis and a grade I lumbar disc herniation. The orthopedic doctor recommended pain medication, traction, el...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
It is recommended to visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation outpatient clinic at a regional hospital or higher to have a physician assess the recovery status and determine if further rehabilitation is needed. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Knee Osteoarthritis and Disc Herniation: A Path to Recovery
Post-Surgery Concerns for Clavicle Fracture: Recovery Tips and Advice
Post-operative issues following a clavicle fracture? After undergoing surgery for a right clavicle fracture on June 20, if you stop using the arm sling after one week, could that cause the plate to shift? Is it safe to use the right hand for everyday activities such as eating and...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. If the fixation after fracture surgery is adequate, there will be no displacement. 2. Avoid as much as possible. 3. If the force exceeds what the plate can bear, displacement may occur.[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns for Clavicle Fracture: Recovery Tips and Advice
Understanding Lumbar Pain: Exercises and Recovery Tips for Fasciitis
Lower back pain I would like to consult a physician regarding my lower back pain, which has persisted for about a month. It is particularly noticeable when I wake up, and occasionally occurs after prolonged sitting or sneezing, but not every time. Currently, I do not experience d...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
1. You can jog for about 20-30 minutes, but your core needs to rest, so avoid doing planks. 2. Electrical stimulation is not recommended; you can do cat-cow stretches and take warm baths. 3. You can use a knee cushion, but do not place a towel under it.[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Pain: Exercises and Recovery Tips for Fasciitis
Understanding Rib Protrusion: Is It Linked to Pelvic Tilt or Scoliosis?
Rib protrusion Hello, doctor. About two months ago, I noticed that I have a slight anterior pelvic tilt. Recently, while lying flat on my back and looking down at my abdomen, I observed that my left rib is more prominent than my right rib, and sometimes the left rib experiences a...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, exercise can improve anterior pelvic tilt and scoliosis. I recommend practicing pull-ups and jogging. Anterior pelvic tilt is not related to rib protrusion, so there's no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Rib Protrusion: Is It Linked to Pelvic Tilt or Scoliosis?
Sudden Tailbone Pain: Should You See a Doctor for Occasional Discomfort?
Pain in the buttocks or coccyx that occurs suddenly, resembling the sensation of being kicked, and subsides within a few minutes may not necessarily require immediate medical attention. However, if the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, based on your letter, this symptom is different from vertebral arch dissociation. It is advisable to visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic when symptoms occur. Thank you.[Read More] Sudden Tailbone Pain: Should You See a Doctor for Occasional Discomfort?
Understanding Muscle Issues: Managing Stiff Neck and Pain in the Upper Back
Stiff neck due to muscle issues? Hello Doctor, I have cervical spine hyperlordosis. On May 7th, I experienced a stiff neck on the right side. After visiting an orthopedic doctor, I was told that aside from the hyperlordosis, there were no other issues, and it was a muscle problem...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, regarding muscle issues and loss of curvature in the cervical spine, it is important to pay attention to your head posture, especially if you often look down, such as when using a mobile phone for extended periods or using a pillow that is too high while sleeping. Applying...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Issues: Managing Stiff Neck and Pain in the Upper Back
Understanding Lateral Malleolus Fractures: Recovery Challenges and Solutions
Closed fracture of the left fibula with lateral malleolus displacement (with internal fixation implant)? Hello, Doctor. On December 18, 2023, I fell off my bike while riding down a slope, and my left foot was crushed under the bike (I was wearing protective gear). At the moment o...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to schedule a follow-up appointment with your physician to discuss the subsequent rehabilitation progress. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Lateral Malleolus Fractures: Recovery Challenges and Solutions