Understanding Meniscus Issues: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery
Meniscus issues Hello, Doctor: I discovered at the end of December last year that my right knee often makes a popping sound. Later, I experienced pain when going up and down stairs for about 2-3 weeks. In mid-January 2021, I went to the hospital, and the doctor prescribed a 14-da...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Whether the condition will worsen without surgery depends on the extent of the meniscal damage. Generally speaking, it is possible for the condition to become more severe. 2. Is there an option for insurance coverage for the surgery, or is it only out-of-pocket? The...[Read More] Understanding Meniscus Issues: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery
Understanding Sudden Joint Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Bone pain Hello Doctor: In mid-March, I have been experiencing sudden, brief episodes of aching or tingling pain in my ankles, calves, arms, knees, and collarbones. However, after some rubbing, the pain subsides quickly. It seems to occur randomly in different areas. What could b...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Muscle soreness or joint pain can be evaluated by an orthopedic specialist, and lower back pain can also be addressed by orthopedics.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Joint Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Shoulder Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Shoulder problems This year in my senior year of high school, I've been experiencing a loose sensation in my right shoulder. I'm not entirely sure what it is, but sometimes when I move my shoulder slightly, it makes a cracking sound, like bones popping. For instance, if...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello: Many joints make sounds during movement. If there is no pain or limitation in movement, you can observe it for now. However, if you find it bothersome and notice asymmetry in your shoulders, it is advisable to consult a physician. Dr. Li Wen-Hong, Orthopedics, Changhua Hos...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Chronic Shoulder and Neck Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Shoulder and neck pain? I have been experiencing shoulder and neck pain for at least 10 years. During a visit to a pain management clinic, the doctor performed an ultrasound on my right shoulder and found a small bone that is not aligned with the left side. He prescribed a topica...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
It has been painful for ten years, so it is indeed advisable to get checked. I recommend that you consider paying out of pocket for a cervical spine MRI and a shoulder and neck ultrasound. If these self-funded examinations show no issues, then you should modify your lifestyle: av...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Shoulder and Neck Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Treatment Options for Coccyx Fracture in Seniors: Rehab vs Surgery
Fracture of the first coccygeal vertebra (coccyx) - what treatment is recommended? Hello, doctor. My mother is in her 70s and generally mobile, but recently she fell backward while standing at home in the morning (suspected due to low blood pressure and dizziness; her blood press...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
1. The fracture of the first lumbar vertebra seen on X-ray may not necessarily be an acute fracture; it could also be an old injury or a chronic deformity due to osteoporosis. 2. To determine whether the fracture was caused by the recent fall, an MRI is needed, which can also ass...[Read More] Treatment Options for Coccyx Fracture in Seniors: Rehab vs Surgery
Understanding Toe Fractures: Healing Time and Surgery Insights
Toe fracture Hello doctor, I fractured the bones in my toes 2, 3, and 4 on February 4th. I underwent surgery twice, with the second surgery around February 26th. Can having two surgeries lead to nonunion of the fracture? How long does it typically take for signs of healing to be ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, you've had surgery twice? I'm not sure why, but it may be difficult to answer. The degree of fracture comminution can affect the healing time. Linear fractures typically heal faster, often showing good recovery in 2 to 3 months. Comminuted fractures heal more slo...[Read More] Understanding Toe Fractures: Healing Time and Surgery Insights
Understanding Hip Pain: When to Seek Orthopedic Care
Hip pain Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about an issue I experienced a year ago. While walking and turning, I suddenly felt intense pain at the junction between my femur and hip bone, without any collision—just a simple movement. After receiving traditional Chinese medic...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, please schedule an appointment with the orthopedic department for an examination. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hip Pain: When to Seek Orthopedic Care
Understanding Recovery from Tibia Fractures: Healing Time and Treatment Options
Fracture healing I fell and fractured my left tibia around September 4, 2019. Now, more than a year later, X-rays show that the bone has healed. However, the doctor still hasn't removed the interlocking plate that I paid for out of pocket. I've heard that it takes about...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
The metal plates can be removed; they may be a bit more difficult to take out if they have been in place for a long time. I recommend scheduling a time with your surgeon to have the plates removed. After that, you can resume normal activities and live your life without much to wo...[Read More] Understanding Recovery from Tibia Fractures: Healing Time and Treatment Options
Understanding a Soft Bump Below the Sternum: Causes and Concerns
The protrusion located just below the center of the sternum? Hello Dr. Chen: Last night, while lying flat, I felt a round protrusion located just below the center of my sternum. It has a soft texture, and pressing on it causes pain, but the pain subsides quickly. Additionally, I ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
That area is called the xiphoid process. In some individuals, it may be more prominent, and frequent touching or pressure can occasionally lead to inflammation and pain, which is mostly benign.[Read More] Understanding a Soft Bump Below the Sternum: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Thumb Joint Stiffness: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Thumb joint Hello Doctor: I would like to ask for your advice. My younger sister, who is 54 years old, has been experiencing stiffness in the first joint of her left thumb upon waking up in the morning. When she bends it, it feels as if there are only bones, with no ligaments, as...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Degenerative joint issues tend to be stiffer and less mobile in the morning, and this is particularly noticeable during unstable weather. It is recommended to soak in warm water before bed and apply anti-inflammatory ointment.[Read More] Understanding Thumb Joint Stiffness: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Understanding Metatarsal Fractures: Recovery and Mobility Challenges
Metatarsal fracture 1. Metatarsal bone 245 has a comminuted fracture. It has been over three months post-surgery, and I can now bear weight (with the support of crutches). Only the big toe can flex downwards, while the other toes have limited movement. What could be the issue?
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Possible adhesions; need to promptly enhance rehabilitation (refer to the rehabilitation department).[Read More] Understanding Metatarsal Fractures: Recovery and Mobility Challenges
Understanding the Risks of Spinal Plate Screw Loosening After Surgery
Regarding the patient who previously raised issue 166164, concerning the problem of cervical vertebral plate screw loosening? Hello Director Chen, I am the patient who previously raised the issue of 166164. It seems there may have been a misunderstanding regarding my question. I ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
There are many factors that influence the risk of loosening, including whether there is a combined bone fusion or other fixation methods. Medical decisions are made based on a comprehensive assessment, and it is not appropriate to compare the risk of loosening solely based on the...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Spinal Plate Screw Loosening After Surgery
Can I Lift Heavy Objects After Healing a Metacarpal Fracture?
Can I lift heavy objects after a metacarpal fracture has healed? Hello doctor, I have a fracture of the fifth metacarpal. Last week, I had an X-ray, and my attending physician said that my bone has completely healed, and I don't need to return for follow-up. I had surgery on...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
If the fracture has healed, normal weight-bearing can be resumed without concern.[Read More] Can I Lift Heavy Objects After Healing a Metacarpal Fracture?
When Will My Ankle Fracture Heal? Pain, Swelling, and Walking Recovery
When will a right ankle fracture heal, and when can I expect to recover from swelling, pain, and walking? Hello Doctor: Regarding case #162885, I had surgery on October 17 and my foot has not healed, preventing me from walking. The doctor mentioned that the bone has not healed pr...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Is it normal to experience swelling, numbness, and pain after getting home from work? ANS: It is quite common to experience swelling in the lower limbs after surgery due to blood perfusion. As long as there is sufficient mobility, the swelling should subside. However...[Read More] When Will My Ankle Fracture Heal? Pain, Swelling, and Walking Recovery
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation for Fifth Metatarsal Fracture: Key Questions Answered
Fifth Metatarsal Displacement Fracture - Postoperative Rehabilitation Hello, Doctor. I underwent a self-funded surgery on March 6 for the internal fixation of a fracture in the fifth metatarsal (located in the head and neck region). The doctor mentioned that it is a minor surgery...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Not responding has an impact. 2. It can be removed for activity. 3. It is considered normal during recovery. 4. Not necessary. 5. There is no need since the surgery has already been performed. 6. It did not help. 7. Weight-bearing can begin in four to six weeks, an...[Read More] Post-Surgery Rehabilitation for Fifth Metatarsal Fracture: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Knee Cartilage Damage: Healing and Treatment Options
Knee cartilage defect issue? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I experienced pain in my left knee after overstretching my ankle while pumping at home. I can walk on flat surfaces without pain, but going up and down stairs is extremely painful. I can only walk in places with ramps....
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Continue taking medication and undergoing rehabilitation; if that doesn't work, we can consider trying PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy.[Read More] Understanding Knee Cartilage Damage: Healing and Treatment Options
Can Surgery Help Relieve My Persistent Foot Pain?
Can surgery be performed? Hello Doctor: The bone just below my right big toe didn't hurt much last year, so I didn't pay much attention to it. However, starting in January, it suddenly became swollen (sometimes so swollen that I can hardly move it) and painful (sharp pa...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if there is no history of trauma, one should pay attention to gout. Hallux valgus rarely presents symptoms at such a young age. If there is no improvement with medication and rest, further examination by an orthopedic specialist is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about ...[Read More] Can Surgery Help Relieve My Persistent Foot Pain?
Understanding Recovery Time and Pain Management for Ankle Fractures
When will a right ankle fracture heal, and when can I expect to see a reduction in swelling and pain, as well as the ability to walk? Hello Doctor: Regarding case #162885, I had surgery on October 17 and my foot has not healed since then, making it impossible for me to walk. The ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Is it normal to experience swelling, numbness, and pain after returning home from work? ANS: It is quite common to experience swelling in the lower limbs after surgery due to blood flow. As long as there is sufficient mobility, the swelling should subside. However, i...[Read More] Understanding Recovery Time and Pain Management for Ankle Fractures
Post-Humerus Fracture: Addressing Complications and Rehabilitation Strategies
Post-fracture complications of the humerus? Dr. Chen, I apologize for the questions I asked a few days ago, but I have a few more things I would like to inquire about. 1. Last time, you mentioned that a bone fragment in the shoulder joint might be the reason for the inability t...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Last time we mentioned that a bone fragment in the shoulder joint might be the reason for the inability to raise the arm. Is there a way to improve this condition? ANS: If so, it would require another surgery. Additionally, if osteoporosis is present, would increasin...[Read More] Post-Humerus Fracture: Addressing Complications and Rehabilitation Strategies
Fifth Metatarsal Neck Fracture: To Operate or Not?
Is surgical reduction necessary for a fracture-dislocation of the fifth metatarsal head and neck? Hello, Doctor. Currently, I have a dislocated fracture of the neck of the fifth metatarsal in my left foot, which has been 10 days. I have consulted several doctors: 1. Last Saturday...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
1. If there is a dislocation of the neck of the fifth metatarsal, is surgery necessary? >>> If it is completely displaced, surgery is generally recommended to reduce the risk of complications and to accelerate healing. If surgery is not performed, observing for two weeks...[Read More] Fifth Metatarsal Neck Fracture: To Operate or Not?