Can Damaged Optic Nerves Be Repaired with New Regenerative Techniques?
Can damaged optic nerves recover? Recently, there have been reports about a "regenerative technology" for spinal nerves that could potentially help paralyzed patients regain mobility or the ability to stand. It is said that Taipei Veterans General Hospital is preparing ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Mr. Lu: This issue should fall under the category of neurology or ophthalmology, not orthopedics.[Read More] Can Damaged Optic Nerves Be Repaired with New Regenerative Techniques?
Do You Really Need Cement Injection for Lumbar Compression Fractures?
Is it necessary to use bone cement for lumbar compression fractures? Dear Director, My mother is 70 years old. She has a habit of exercising regularly and has been learning belly dancing for over two years. Last November, she performed at the Flower Expo. After her performance, ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Vertebral compression fractures can be effectively treated with vertebroplasty using bone cement, which can quickly alleviate pain. To improve or restore bone quality or bone density, medication and calcium supplements are necessary. If pain persists, analgesics can be used for t...[Read More] Do You Really Need Cement Injection for Lumbar Compression Fractures?
Understanding Recovery After Left Ankle Fracture Surgery: Key Questions Answered
Left ankle fracture? Hello, Doctor: I underwent surgery for a left ankle fracture on April 7, and it has now been four weeks. I would like to ask a few questions (as my follow-up appointment is still a few weeks away, I hope you can understand). 1. At home, there are some areas...
Dr. Luo Zhongwei Reply:
DEAR HSINGYEH: Your description is unclear; it's not specified whether it's the left foot or the right foot. It is not advisable to jump on one foot as it may lead to falls. Your primary care physician should have provided you with educational information regarding your...[Read More] Understanding Recovery After Left Ankle Fracture Surgery: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Hip Pain After Ankle Injury: Next Steps for Recovery
Bone issues Dr. Chen: At the end of January this year, I accidentally fell from a step while getting off a vehicle, landing on my left foot first. I held onto the handrails on both sides to prevent myself from falling completely, but I twisted my left ankle. The next morning, the...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Reader: This may be a sprain or strain of the pelvic tissues. The pelvis is a very strong structure, and if there were a fracture, walking would definitely be problematic. The injury has already occurred, and the current approach should focus on reducing activity levels, min...[Read More] Understanding Hip Pain After Ankle Injury: Next Steps for Recovery
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Closed Radial Shaft Fractures in Seniors
Closed fracture of the right radial shaft? Hello, doctor. My 84-year-old grandmother accidentally fell and sustained a closed fracture of the right radial shaft. The doctor said she needs surgery and the insertion of a graft for treatment, but my grandmother finds it troublesome ...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
Hello: Distal radius fractures caused by falls in the elderly typically occur near the wrist, close to the palm. I'm not sure about the extent of displacement after the fracture. The greater the displacement, if not treated with reduction and stabilization, the more signific...[Read More] Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Closed Radial Shaft Fractures in Seniors
Understanding Post-Operative Weakness After Hip Replacement Surgery
Post-operative weakness in walking after total hip arthroplasty? Nine months ago, after a fall resulting in a fracture, I underwent hip joint replacement surgery. After consulting with the surgeon, I was informed that I could engage in swimming activities. However, after swimming...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
After a limb fracture, there is a period of reduced physical activity, which will inevitably lead to some degree of muscle atrophy, resulting in weakness. These phenomena will gradually recover after fracture treatment, provided that appropriate rehabilitation exercises are perfo...[Read More] Understanding Post-Operative Weakness After Hip Replacement Surgery
Understanding and Managing Scaphoid Fractures: A Patient's Guide
Closed fracture of the carpal bones in the hand? I fell while playing basketball and used my hand to break the fall, resulting in a bone injury. I went to the Tri-Service General Hospital in Keelung and had an X-ray done. They told me I have a closed fracture of the lunate bone. ...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, if it's convenient for you, please visit our hospital (Keelung Hospital) for a consultation. Through a physical examination and X-ray imaging, I will be able to provide you with further recommendations more easily![Read More] Understanding and Managing Scaphoid Fractures: A Patient's Guide
Can the Coccyx Heal Itself After a Fall? Understanding Recovery Time
Does the coccyx heal on its own? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I fell down the stairs and went to a clinic for an X-ray. The technician reviewed the images and mentioned that my last coccygeal vertebra is displaced anteriorly. They advised me to rest for five to six weeks and sug...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I would like to address your inquiry and provide some suggestions as follows: Displacement typically does not resolve on its own and is generally not a concern, except during childbirth when it is important for the obstetrician to check for any...[Read More] Can the Coccyx Heal Itself After a Fall? Understanding Recovery Time
Understanding Potential Bleeding from Sacral Fractures After a Fall
The possibility of bleeding due to a sacral fracture resulting from a car accident? Hello, Dr. Chen: I would like to ask you about a bruise caused by landing on my buttocks (without visible bruising). After two X-ray examinations, a crack was found on my coccyx and sacrum. The or...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Netizen: If it is merely a fracture of the coccyx or sacrum, there should be localized swelling and pain, but there should not be any reddish-brown foreign material. Unless there is an epidermal injury or associated damage to the reproductive or digestive systems. I suggest ...[Read More] Understanding Potential Bleeding from Sacral Fractures After a Fall
Overcoming Ankle Injury Healing Challenges in Special Needs Patients
Challenges in Healing Ankle Sprains? Dear Dr. Lee, My 23-year-old son, who has severe intellectual disabilities, suffered a torn ankle ligament from a fall while walking in mid-July this year. He was treated at a hospital where the physician advised that the ankle should be immo...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, in response to your question, if the injury from mid-July has not healed by October, it indicates a slower healing process. The treatment of fractures must take into account the range of motion of the joints. If immobilization lasts too long, although the fracture may heal...[Read More] Overcoming Ankle Injury Healing Challenges in Special Needs Patients
Managing Post-Surgery Pain in Elderly Patients with Hip Injuries
My father-in-law is 78 years old and has undergone surgery for a second fracture? Hello Dr. Zhou, my father-in-law is 78 years old and lives in Penghu. He used to be a fisherman, and around the age of 40, he underwent surgery on his hip joint. Unfortunately, early last year, he h...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, addressing your concerns is similar to maintaining a vehicle; regular check-ups are necessary, and any issues should be examined (preferably at the original facility). Since your father-in-law has already undergone surgery, please return to the original hospital to consult...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Pain in Elderly Patients with Hip Injuries
Understanding Post-Fall Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Fall-related injuries Hello Dr. Lai, I slipped and fell while walking in mid-April of this year, landing directly on my buttocks. On the 16th, I went to your hospital for an X-ray examination, and the results indicated that there were no issues. However, I am unsure why the area...
Dr. Lai Qiren Reply:
X-ray results can only reveal bone issues and cannot show soft tissue injuries. It is recommended to seek treatment from a rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Understanding Post-Fall Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Post-Surgery Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal Surgery
Just had surgery? Hello, doctor. I recently underwent a discectomy 22 days ago. Everything was going well post-surgery, and all pain had completely resolved. However, in the past two days, I suddenly started experiencing pain again. The incision from my surgery is on the right si...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If it is a sprain, it usually takes about one to two weeks to heal. After surgery, the pain at the incision site typically lasts about one to two weeks as well. It is best to avoid bending at the waist and lifting heavy objects temporarily after surgery. If there is a herniated d...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal Surgery
Choosing Between Plates and Pins for Colles Fracture Treatment: A Guide
Colles' Fracture (Distal Radius Fracture) Hello Director Chen, I have a closed fracture of the radius due to a car accident, and I have osteoporosis. Currently, my doctor has recommended using a plate for fixation because the bone is somewhat fragmented. If I manage my house...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Readers: Distal radius fractures are commonly seen in postmenopausal women due to falls, resulting in osteoporotic fractures. Treatment options include closed reduction with cast immobilization, closed reduction with percutaneous pinning and cast immobilization, closed reduc...[Read More] Choosing Between Plates and Pins for Colles Fracture Treatment: A Guide
Understanding Flat Feet: Impact on Basketball Performance and Balance
Issues related to flat feet? I previously had an X-ray of my foot, which showed angles of over 161 and 166 degrees. The doctor diagnosed me with flat feet. Since I play basketball, I would like to ask a few questions: 1. (1) When I play basketball and collide with others, I oft...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Flatfoot individuals can still engage in most sports, and the six points mentioned are related to this condition. However, using supportive athletic shoes with insoles can provide protection while exercising, which may reduce associated symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Flat Feet: Impact on Basketball Performance and Balance
Understanding Post-Fracture Elbow Pain: Causes and Solutions
What are the sequelae of a hand bone fracture? Hello Dr. Shi: I previously fractured the bone in my left elbow due to a fall. After rehabilitation, I was able to extend it normally. However, recently, due to my workouts, I've noticed that after lifting dumbbells, my left arm...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It may be due to excessive exercise causing muscle fatigue, which can result in soreness. It's best to rest and see if it improves. If it doesn't get better, you should consult a physician. You can also try using a warm compress to see if that helps.[Read More] Understanding Post-Fracture Elbow Pain: Causes and Solutions
Shoulder Ligament Surgery: When Is It Necessary and What to Expect?
Shoulder ligament surgery, without specifying a physician? My father recently suffered a shoulder ligament tear and arm dislocation due to a car accident. He has seen several traditional Chinese medicine practitioners for massage therapy, but there has been no improvement in heal...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
If the shoulder ligament is torn at the shoulder joint, it is best to use MRI or arthroscopy to determine which ligament is injured and the extent of the injury before considering surgical options. This type of surgery falls under a subspecialty of orthopedics, so it is recommend...[Read More] Shoulder Ligament Surgery: When Is It Necessary and What to Expect?
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Managing Pain and Sleep Issues
Ankylosing Spondylitis I have been suffering from ankylosing spondylitis for 15 years. Currently, I am taking anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medications at the Immunology and Rheumatology Department of Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Two weeks ago, I suddenly experienced...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic long-term disease that affects various parts of the body, particularly the spine and joints. The pathology occurs due to the adhesion between the joints, leading to a gradual loss of mobility and resulting in stiffness. Additionally, decreased ...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Managing Pain and Sleep Issues
Knee Injury: Understanding Bruising and Swelling After a Fall
Knee contusion with hematoma? Hello, a few days ago, I had an accident where my motorcycle was unstable while parked, causing it to tip over and fall on me. At that moment, I felt a lot of pain in my knee (similar to the pain of a scrape or abrasion). Walking became quite difficu...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Post-traumatic swelling in the knee can be categorized into several components: 1. superficial soft tissue, 2. joint effusion, and 3. fractures. Generally, after a fracture, there is an inability to move the joint. Joint effusion typically causes significant swelling and pain, wh...[Read More] Knee Injury: Understanding Bruising and Swelling After a Fall
Understanding Ulnar and Radial Bone Displacement After a Fall
Dislocation and fracture of the ulnar and radial bones in the hand after a fall? Hello Dr. Li, Today, while riding my motorcycle, I was brushed against by a car making a right turn, causing my right arm to hit the ground directly. When I got up, I noticed that the position of my...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: If you still have questions regarding your condition, the best approach is to communicate face-to-face with your attending physician. If you still have concerns or are unsatisfied, you may seek a second opinion from another orthopedic surgeon. Generally speaking, wrist inj...[Read More] Understanding Ulnar and Radial Bone Displacement After a Fall