Understanding Intermittent Rib and Shoulder Pain: When to Seek Help
The entire upper body often experiences cramping pain? Since last June, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain below my chest near the ribs for a year. Accompanied by skin itching, I initially thought it was a liver issue, and the pain lasted for a month. The pain occur...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
It is difficult to make a judgment based solely on the text description. I recommend that you seek evaluation from an orthopedic specialist, a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist, or a family medicine physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Rib and Shoulder Pain: When to Seek Help
Can Rib Injuries Worsen After Activity? Understanding Your Symptoms
Rib fracture after three weeks of activity following a collision? On February 8th, I was elbowed forcefully from behind by a stranger at the market, impacting the last one or two ribs on my right side. The impact was quite deep and extremely painful. However, I felt that seeking ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
The self-healing capacity of the ribs is quite good, and the likelihood of fractures from typical impacts is low, unless there is a severe blow from a car accident or hard objects (such as iron bars, steel plates, or baseball bats). Osteoporosis in the elderly is a different cons...[Read More] Can Rib Injuries Worsen After Activity? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Persistent Knee Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Knee pain and tingling? Hello, doctor. I am a high school freshman. Previously, in the second year of junior high, I practiced weightlifting and was hit on the left knee by a 62-kilogram barbell. At that time, I didn't rest and continued training. After returning home, I app...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is necessary to return to the physician for a consultation, and further imaging studies may be performed if needed.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Knee Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Toe Problems: Size Variations and Foot Deformities
Regarding toe issues? Hello, Doctor! Sorry to bother you. I have a few small questions I'd like to ask, and I appreciate your help in advance. 1. Do feet vary in size throughout the day? Recently, I visited a family medicine doctor for other reasons and took the opportunit...
Dr. Shen Boquan Reply:
Hello, online friends. Our feet may appear slightly larger in the afternoon due to fluid accumulation. After a nap, lying flat can reduce some of that fluid. Generally speaking, East Asians tend to have wider feet, and wearing shoes that are too narrow can be uncomfortable. For f...[Read More] Understanding Toe Problems: Size Variations and Foot Deformities
Chronic Rib and Shoulder Blade Pain: What Specialist Should You See?
Pain in the left and right ribs, pain in the scapula? Doctor: Why do I have rib pain every day, and it has been persistent? I had an X-ray done and visited a family medicine clinic where I was prescribed medication twice. The first medication worked, but after finishing it, the p...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
It is recommended to first visit the orthopedic or pulmonology department at the hospital for an examination and arrange for some imaging studies, such as X-rays or bone scans. This will help differentiate whether the issue is intrathoracic (such as pneumonia or pleuritis) or ext...[Read More] Chronic Rib and Shoulder Blade Pain: What Specialist Should You See?
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
Managing Osteoporosis: Treatment Options and Dental Considerations
Post-osteoporosis management? Hello Dr. Chen, Since the beginning of this year, I have noticeably lost height and my weight has decreased by 6.7 kg. I underwent a bone density test (hip) and my T-score was -3.3. The rehabilitation physician advised me to supplement with calcium...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: Based on your condition, it is recommended that you adopt the following multi-faceted treatment approach: dietary supplementation of calcium and vitamin D, along with sun exposure (20 minutes of sunlight daily between 10 AM and 3 PM), exercise (walking, hiking, or ...[Read More] Managing Osteoporosis: Treatment Options and Dental Considerations
Understanding Swollen and Painful Finger Joints: Causes and Treatments
Swollen and painful finger joints that cannot bend? Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I felt stiffness (a clicking sensation) in the joints of my left index finger (the distal and middle joints), which was different from the normal movement of my other finger joints. I used to occasi...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. If rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, it is appropriate to check for rheumatoid factor (RF) in the blood. 2. This approach is correct. 3. If necessary, X-rays can be taken. 4. If there is redness, swelling, heat, and pain, ice packs can be applied, but heat should not be...[Read More] Understanding Swollen and Painful Finger Joints: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Right Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Pain in the right lower back? Hello, doctor. About a week ago, I spent over ten hours sitting in the same position during a gathering with friends. The next day, I started experiencing soreness in the upper right side of my lower back (since I use my right hand to carry things). ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It might be a muscle strain in your back. You can try taking some pain relievers, and if that doesn't help, you'll need to see a doctor.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Left Rib Protrusion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Protrusion of the left rib? I recently discovered that my left rib is protruding, and I feel discomfort in the left rib area when I breathe (the sensation is different on both sides). There is also a pressure sensation where the lower left rib connects to the back and waist. I ha...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You can see an orthopedic specialist for rib protrusion that typically does not require surgery or correction, as it is usually caused by excessive strain leading to pain. If there is a suspicion of internal organ issues, you should consult an internist (gastroenterologist or hep...[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Protrusion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Sharp Pain in the Left Second Toe: Causes and Concerns
Occasional sharp pain in the second toe of the left foot? Hello Doctor, I occasionally experience a sharp, stabbing pain in my left foot's second toe. Sometimes it occurs after walking about 20 to 30 steps, while other times I may not feel it at all throughout the day. This ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: For the first question, if there is no trauma, it may be related to peripheral neuropathy, which often improves on its own. For the second and third questions, I am not sure what you mean by "missing a retractable line"; it is necessary to see a doctor and get an...[Read More] Understanding Sharp Pain in the Left Second Toe: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Early Degeneration of Thoracolumbar Spine: Causes and Prevention
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? 1. What causes thoracolumbar degeneration? 2. How can further degeneration be prevented? 3. Why does thoracolumbar degeneration occur at a young age?
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of chronic back pain in young individuals that require differential diagnosis. It is recommended that you first consult a trusted primary care physician (family medicine) for evaluation, and then, depending on the situation, you may be referred to a s...[Read More] Understanding Early Degeneration of Thoracolumbar Spine: Causes and Prevention
Chronic Pain Dilemma: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Hello, Dr. Chang? The following situation has already affected my life... I have been seeing doctors for over a year without any results... I experience intermittent abdominal pain, which has led to almost 24-hour daily pain in my lower back to the front and back of my ribs, acco...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
If you are unable to decide, you can first visit a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Chronic Pain Dilemma: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Chronic Discomfort: Could Your Rib and Lower Back Pain Be Orthopedic?
Feeling unwell every day..? I have been experiencing long-term abdominal pain for over a year, with daily discomfort in the area from my lower back to my ribcage. The pain is not localized and feels like pressure, tightness, and bloating, along with an indescribable sense of unea...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
This issue is too vague; it is recommended to visit a nearby outpatient clinic. If you are unsure which specialty to see, you can start by consulting a family medicine physician, who can then provide guidance for further treatment.[Read More] Chronic Discomfort: Could Your Rib and Lower Back Pain Be Orthopedic?
Understanding Foot Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Foot edema Hello Dr. Lee, I have some questions I would like to ask. About two months ago, I went to a martial arts center to adjust my ankle. Initially, the discomfort in my ankle improved; at that time, my ankle was not injured, just a little uncomfortable. After a few sessio...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. Based on your description, since I cannot thoroughly review your blood test results, X-rays, or see the affected area online or perform any physical examinations, any conclusions drawn would merely be speculation, which is not ideal. I wonder ...[Read More] Understanding Foot Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Is Having Uneven Shoulders Normal? Understanding Shoulder Pain and Concerns
I have uneven shoulders; is this normal? I noticed in the mirror over the past few days that I have uneven shoulders! It's not very obvious, but it's noticeable. I asked a classmate if I have uneven shoulders, and he confirmed that I do. Is this normal? My left shoulder...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: You can first discuss your concerns with your family medicine physician, who can then decide whether to refer you to a specific subspecialty for further evaluation. Generally speaking, uneven shoulder height is mostly caused by posture, with only a small percentage related...[Read More] Is Having Uneven Shoulders Normal? Understanding Shoulder Pain and Concerns
Understanding Foot Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Foot pain Hello Doctor: Due to my work, I need to stand for long periods. Recently, I've noticed that my feet have been swelling and my shoes feel very tight. My feet are also very sore and swollen around the soles and ankles. Should I see an orthopedic specialist or a famil...
Dr. Fan Hongbin Reply:
Hello: Please follow up at the orthopedic outpatient clinic to determine the cause of your condition, but try to avoid standing for long periods or take short breaks while standing. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Foot Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Understanding Thigh Pain: Effective Treatments for Musculoskeletal Issues
Thigh swelling and pain? Hello, doctor. I have a job that requires me to walk frequently (not labor-intensive, about 6 to 8 hours a day). At the beginning of May, I experienced swelling and pain in my left thigh, which made it difficult to bend. I visited a family medicine clinic...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit Dr. Chuang Yong-Ching at our Sports Medicine Orthopedic Clinic to determine the cause of your condition, and to receive accurate answers and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Thigh Pain: Effective Treatments for Musculoskeletal Issues
Understanding Unexplained Bruises and Joint Pain in Young Dancers
Unexplained bruising around the knee joint and pain in the ankle joint? Hello, Doctor: I have been learning Japanese dance, and I want to avoid any knee issues that could prevent me from dancing in the future. However, my knees have been feeling off for a long time, so I came to ...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, Ms. Miao: In order to make a diagnosis, it is essential to gather the chief complaint, medical history, and results from pathological and X-ray examinations, as they all work together to reach a conclusion. I recommend that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. S...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Bruises and Joint Pain in Young Dancers
Can Vinegar Help with Periostitis Pain? Dietary Tips for Relief
Can vinegar be consumed for periostitis? My grandmother is sixty-six years old. After she consumed vinegar, her hands became swollen and painful. Is it safe to consume vinegar with periostitis? What other foods should be avoided?
Dr. Lin Gengxiao Reply:
1. People often attribute unexplained pain and swelling in the limbs to periostitis, but there is no clinical evidence to support this. 2. There are many potential causes for limb pain and swelling; however, cases of hand swelling and pain caused by vinegar consumption are rare. ...[Read More] Can Vinegar Help with Periostitis Pain? Dietary Tips for Relief