Understanding Risks and Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the risks associated with minimally invasive surgery on the fifth lumbar vertebra. What does minimally invasive surgery involve? My brother had a fall in the military and sustained a compression fracture of the tw...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Minimally invasive procedures are not inherently related to surgical risks; the key factor is the type of surgery being performed, which is what truly affects the surgical risk. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Risks and Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Sudden Weakness in One Leg: Causes and Concerns Explained
The legs may suddenly become weak and give way? Doctor, I sometimes experience sudden weakness in my legs while walking, where my leg feels like it gives out for a moment, but then it returns to normal quickly. I have never fallen because of this; it is always momentary. Could th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is likely that the issue is related to muscle weakness, as osteoporosis typically has no warning signs. To determine if osteoporosis is present, a bone density test is necessary. Based on your age, you are not yet at the age where osteoporosis is expected.[Read More] Sudden Weakness in One Leg: Causes and Concerns Explained
Emergency Room Oversight: Misdiagnosis of Shoulder Injury After Accident
Medical issues On the evening of Friday, March 8th, I had a car accident (a fall) on my way home from work and was taken by ambulance to a hospital in Taoyuan. When my family arrived, the emergency doctor said everything was fine and that I could go home if I didn't feel nau...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The emergency department is generally a place for urgent care or for handling more critical and severe patients. Therefore, after patients are seen by the emergency physician, they are usually advised to return for follow-up in outpatient care to ensure that nothing has been over...[Read More] Emergency Room Oversight: Misdiagnosis of Shoulder Injury After Accident
Understanding Orthopedic Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Orthopedic Medical Knowledge Director Chen: Hello! I have the following medical question: I am a 62-year-old retired woman. Last year, during the summer, I fell off my bicycle, landing on my right side and pressing against the bike. After returning home, I noticed a bruise near m...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Ms. Chang, The fall and subsequent injury are merely the initial causes. After the injury, it may gradually lead to a herniated disc that compresses the nerves, or it may exacerbate the narrowing of the spinal canal due to degeneration, further compressing the nerves and ca...[Read More] Understanding Orthopedic Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Should You See a Doctor for Arm Pain After a Fall?
Pain upon palpation of the upper arm? Hello Dr. Lee, I accidentally slipped and fell the other day, landing on my left side and instinctively bracing myself with my left hand. Initially, I didn't feel much discomfort, but by the afternoon, I started to feel soreness when p...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello Tina: If you experience not only soreness and localized tenderness but also limited movement in your elbow or wrist joints, please visit the outpatient clinic for further evaluation. Orthopedics, Changhua Hospital, Dr. Li Wen-Hong.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Arm Pain After a Fall?
Managing Wrist and Elbow Tendon Issues After a Fall: Tips for Relief
Wrist joint and elbow tendons? Hello Doctor, I previously fell and landed on my right hand. During my last X-ray examination, it seemed that one of the bones on the outer side of my wrist was slightly displaced. Now, when I bend my wrist, I hear a clicking sound, and it feels lik...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
1. A rupture of the distal radioulnar ligament can be improved by wearing a wrist brace; however, severe cases may require surgical reconstruction. 2. Inflammation of the elbow, such as tennis elbow, may also cause similar sensations. It is recommended to perform 5 minutes of str...[Read More] Managing Wrist and Elbow Tendon Issues After a Fall: Tips for Relief
Post-Surgery Care: Can You Enjoy Amusement Rides After Hand Surgery?
After surgery for a hand fracture where the metal pins have not been removed, what activities should be monitored? I am about to go on a graduation trip and I would like to know if I can participate in amusement park rides (such as roller coasters and free falls). I just had surg...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If a fracture has not yet healed, it is not advisable to engage in intense physical activities, including the activities you mentioned. Typically, fractures of the hand take about three to six months to heal. You should consult your physician to determine whether the fracture has...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care: Can You Enjoy Amusement Rides After Hand Surgery?
Can Calcium Intake Cause a Hump Nose After Nasal Fracture?
Nasal bone fracture I sustained a nasal bone fracture while playing basketball. If I continue to consume soy milk, cow's milk, yogurt, and calcium supplements, will this lead to bone overgrowth and the development of a hump on my nose? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Nasal bone fractures fall under the scope of plastic surgery, and it is advisable to consult a plastic surgeon. Wishing you peace and health! Sincerely, Dr. Chen.[Read More] Can Calcium Intake Cause a Hump Nose After Nasal Fracture?
Understanding Swollen and Painful Wrist Joints in Elderly Patients
Swelling and pain in the wrist joint? Dear Dr. Chen, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to consult you through the Taiwan e-Hospital regarding a medical issue. The situation is as follows: My grandmother is 85 years old and has been suffering from a long-standing hand i...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Netizen: Based on your description, your grandmother may have an old fracture that has healed improperly, and due to her age, she may also be experiencing degeneration and arthritis. These issues can lead to swelling and pain in the joints or tendons, making it difficult for...[Read More] Understanding Swollen and Painful Wrist Joints in Elderly Patients
Managing Osteoporosis and Fractures in Elderly Patients: A Guide
Fractures and Osteoporosis My mother, who is 85 years old, suffered a fall and underwent surgery for a fracture near her thigh. After examination, she was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Currently, she has weakness in her legs and is unable to walk or get up on her own. She has been...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear User: Calcium and Fosamax are primarily used to treat osteoporosis to prevent further fractures. If there are no specific issues such as medication side effects or worsening kidney function, it is currently recommended to take it for five years and then check bone mineral de...[Read More] Managing Osteoporosis and Fractures in Elderly Patients: A Guide
Understanding Wrist Pain After a Fall: Causes and Solutions
Falling while using your hands for support can cause muscle pain? Six months ago, I accidentally fell while playing basketball and landed on my hand. It got better for a while, but recently, after increasing my wrist activity during basketball practice, the tendons in my wrist ha...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
It is likely a wrist ligament injury, and chronic inflammation can also lead to persistent symptoms. It is recommended to use a wrist brace and rest. If there is no improvement, please return for a follow-up appointment.[Read More] Understanding Wrist Pain After a Fall: Causes and Solutions
Recovering from ACL Reconstruction: Managing Setbacks and Concerns
Slipping during rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction? Hello, Doctor. I previously asked you about the rehabilitation progress after my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and bilateral meniscus repair surgery on February 2nd. Now, three month...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Your MRI report is not very clear, and the extent of the knee joint injury is uncertain. However, the conditions you mentioned are all possible. The most important thing now is to establish a diagnosis before determining the treatment or rehabilitation plan. There is still a chan...[Read More] Recovering from ACL Reconstruction: Managing Setbacks and Concerns
Should Surgery Be Urgent for a Humerus Fracture in Elderly Patients?
Is surgery urgently needed for a humeral fracture? Hello, Doctor: My mother is 64 years old and has Parkinson's disease. She underwent surgery on her left elbow due to an injury from a fall two years ago, but because of an infection, she had to undergo a debridement surgery....
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Because there are no visible changes in the imaging, it is difficult to make a judgment. However, after receiving a joint replacement, if the fracture is unstable, surgery is usually required. If it is a stable fracture, conservative treatment may be an option. You may consider c...[Read More] Should Surgery Be Urgent for a Humerus Fracture in Elderly Patients?
Understanding Flat Feet: X-Ray Measurements and Running Discomfort
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English? Hello, Doctor: 1. You mentioned that many factors can affect the measurement results of flatfoot. Is there a significant difference between standing X-rays and lateral X-rays? I had two standing lateral X-ra...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello Lai, 1. Theoretically, there is a certain margin of error in the standing measurements for flat feet, but the differences of 164 degrees, 155 degrees, and 167 degrees are indeed too significant. The previous three examinations were all below 168 degrees, so the likelihood ...[Read More] Understanding Flat Feet: X-Ray Measurements and Running Discomfort
Understanding Tailbone Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and Home Care Tips
Coccyx injury? Hello, doctor. I fell while skateboarding and landed on my back. At that moment, I felt pain and numbness in my lower back (the area connecting both kidneys) and experienced shortness of breath. After resting, I was able to stand and walk. A day later, I don't...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Falling to the ground typically transmits force to the lumbar spine. If there is pain, it is important to be cautious about the possibility of a fracture. Generally, this type of situation does not injure the kidneys. If there are any concerns, it is best to consult an orthopedic...[Read More] Understanding Tailbone Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and Home Care Tips
Managing Pain and Recovery After Multiple Rib Fractures: What to Know
Four ribs are fractured? Hello, doctor! My husband is 48 years old and fractured four ribs after falling down the stairs. After being treated at the hospital, he returned home to rest for six days. Initially, he didn't experience much pain, but after sneezing two days ago, h...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello Brenda, rib fractures do not require special protective gear, but you should try to avoid large movements of the upper body or torso, such as lifting heavy objects, turning, or coughing. If these actions cannot be avoided, you can use both hands to press against your chest ...[Read More] Managing Pain and Recovery After Multiple Rib Fractures: What to Know
Understanding Muscle Shortening: Symptoms and Characteristics of Quadriceps and Achilles Tendon Issues
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English? Hello, I am unable to squat due to my legs being together, and when I spread my legs with my heels flat on the ground, I tend to lean backward. A previous doctor mentioned it could be frog legs, but today ano...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Achilles tendon tightness can prevent you from squatting down completely. If you attempt to squat forcefully, you may fall backward. When sitting on the ground or a bed, if you extend your thighs and knees and forcefully dorsiflex your feet towards your abdomen, you will notice t...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Shortening: Symptoms and Characteristics of Quadriceps and Achilles Tendon Issues
Understanding Knee Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Knee injury Hello Dr. Wang, about two weeks ago, I fell and bruised both of my knees, which were painful. After a week, the bruising has healed, but I still experience knee pain when squatting and cannot squat for long periods. Could this be related to the fall? Should I schedule...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Ms. Wang: Squatting puts significant pressure on the knee joints. If there is any inflammation or issue with the knee, prolonged squatting should be avoided, but walking is generally not a problem. If there are concerns, it is advisable to visit a hospital for further examination...[Read More] Understanding Knee Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Preventing Osteomyelitis: Key Insights for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Prevention of Osteomyelitis Hello, Doctor! I am a 42-year-old patient with rheumatoid arthritis. Since the onset of my condition, my inflammatory markers (ESR) have consistently been above 9, which is quite high. As a result, I have undergone total knee and hip replacements. Unfo...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The transmission route is usually through the bloodstream and is related to immunosuppressive medications. There is a possibility of recurrence. If there are implants or artificial joints in the body, antibiotics may be less effective in reaching the site. Prevention involves mai...[Read More] Preventing Osteomyelitis: Key Insights for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Will Tailbone and Spine Injuries Affect My Fertility?
I am injured? Hello doctor, I am a female and I would like to ask about my frequent falls where I often land on my buttocks, injuring my coccyx and spine. Recently, I fell again and hurt my coccyx and spine. Will this affect my ability to conceive in the future? Am I at risk of i...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Sichun: Unless it results in a severe pelvic fracture with displacement, it is otherwise unrelated to pregnancy and childbirth. Wishing you safety.[Read More] Will Tailbone and Spine Injuries Affect My Fertility?