Understanding Poor Radius Fracture Healing: Timeline and Nutrition Tips
Malunion of the radius? The doctor mentioned that it usually takes about six to nine months to determine if there is a malunion of the radius. However, I had my external fixation removed on May 4th, and my doctor scheduled a follow-up appointment for May 26th (three weeks later) ...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In order to maximize the benefits and effectiveness of treatment for patients, physicians sometimes take proactive measures based on functionality (not solely for fracture healing). Therefore, making an early decision regarding the need for further surgery is intentional! ...[Read More] Understanding Poor Radius Fracture Healing: Timeline and Nutrition Tips
Understanding Growth Plate Stimulation: A Key Orthopedic Procedure
Growth plate What is growth plate stimulation therapy?
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Hello: Currently, there are no reports on "growth plate stimulation therapy" in pediatric orthopedic journals. Generally, there are devices that use ultrasound to stimulate fracture healing, but due to the differences in the healing of fractures involving the growth pla...[Read More] Understanding Growth Plate Stimulation: A Key Orthopedic Procedure
Understanding Femoral Neck Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Walking Challenges
Left femoral neck fracture? My husband unfortunately suffered a fracture of the left femoral neck on May 22 of this year, and it has been four months since then. During his most recent follow-up appointment, the doctor mentioned that the joint has been preserved, but the bone has...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, In response to your question, femoral neck fractures are initially classified into two categories: one with no displacement or minimal displacement. Cases in this category are typically treated with internal fixation (using screws or plates). If all goes well, the probab...[Read More] Understanding Femoral Neck Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Walking Challenges
Delayed Fracture Healing: Is Short Arm Cast the Right Choice?
Delayed union of fractures Wrist injury occurred over three months ago, followed by arthroscopic examination and ulnar shortening surgery, with a steel plate and five screws for fixation. The fracture line is still clearly visible. Currently, a short arm cast is being used for st...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
After ulnar shortening surgery, if the bone screws are securely fixed, a short arm cast can be used. It is normal for the fracture line to remain visible for more than three months. The cast should only be removed once the fracture line has disappeared, at which point weight-bear...[Read More] Delayed Fracture Healing: Is Short Arm Cast the Right Choice?
Managing Fracture Recovery: Should You See a Chiropractor?
Hello, may I ask about issues related to fractures? Hello, Doctor: I had a car accident three weeks ago, and I fractured my right shoulder blade! It is a comminuted fracture. The doctor said I don't need surgery or a cast, and that it will heal on its own. I was only prescri...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If the scapula fracture does not involve the joint surface, surgery is not necessary, and it will gradually heal on its own. With appropriate rehabilitation, recovery is usually possible without the need for chiropractic treatment. Please have your mother accompany you to see an ...[Read More] Managing Fracture Recovery: Should You See a Chiropractor?
Understanding Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Recovery and Concerns
Fracture of the tibia and fibula in the left lower leg? Hello Dr. Lee, Last December, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in fractures of my left tibia (broken in two places) and fibula. It was an open fracture, and I underwent surgery on the same day using an externa...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions, first of all, congratulations. Although the car accident resulted in a severe open fracture, based on your description, the physician handling your case has done an excellent job, and I believe there will be a good outcome. Question 1: Prol...[Read More] Understanding Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Recovery and Concerns
Managing Wrist Ligament Laxity After Scaphoid Fracture Healing
Laxity of the adjacent wrist ligaments following a fracture? After healing from a scaphoid fracture in the wrist (without surgery), the ulnar and palmar ligaments near the wrist have become lax, causing painful movement of the load-bearing cartilage. Since you are engaged in heav...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
In addition to rehabilitation, there doesn't seem to be any specific methods. If the ligaments are indeed very lax, using braces for stabilization or protection may help improve the situation. Furthermore, it may be advisable to consult a physician to see if surgical interve...[Read More] Managing Wrist Ligament Laxity After Scaphoid Fracture Healing
Can Fracture Healing Cause Limb Length Discrepancy?
Question Question: Can a healed fracture cause leg length discrepancy? When will my depression improve?
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Hello: 1. If a fracture is severe, it may heal improperly and result in leg length discrepancy. If the difference in length is minor (less than 2 centimeters), you can use shoe lifts to compensate. However, if the difference is significant (greater than 4 centimeters), it is reco...[Read More] Can Fracture Healing Cause Limb Length Discrepancy?
Understanding Delayed Healing in Femoral Fractures: Treatment Options Explored
Delayed or poor healing of femoral fractures..? Hello Dr. Chang. Before the summer vacation, I had a motorcycle accident due to speeding, which resulted in a closed fracture of the bone in the middle of my right thigh. After the surgery, there was an incision on the right side of...
Dr. Zhang Shengben Reply:
The effectiveness of shockwave therapy varies in opinion, but it is generally considered a viable option to try before undergoing bone graft surgery. There are no such machines available in the Hualien area, but Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital has more experience and could...[Read More] Understanding Delayed Healing in Femoral Fractures: Treatment Options Explored
Understanding Rib Fracture Healing: Timeline and Treatment Options
A fractured and displaced rib typically takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal completely. However, the healing time can vary depending on factors such as the individual's age, overall health, and the severity of the injury. It's important to follow up with a healthcare provi...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Hello: For multiple rib fractures, it is recommended to use adhesive tape for external fixation. If you have any issues, it is advisable to consult a thoracic surgeon for further treatment and diagnosis. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Rib Fracture Healing: Timeline and Treatment Options
Optimizing Bone Healing After Fracture: Tips and Insights
Please ask your questions. Thank you? Hello Dr. Lee: I had a closed femoral fracture from a car accident two and a half years ago, and the healing has not been ideal. Three months ago, while working, the steel nail showed signs of cracking, so I underwent surgery again to replace...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the healing of fractures varies among individuals due to different conditions, so the timing for the removal of metal pins also differs. It is advisable to leave such decisions to your original surgeon, who is most familiar with your situation...[Read More] Optimizing Bone Healing After Fracture: Tips and Insights
Understanding Vascularized Bone Grafting for Scaphoid Fractures
Vascularized bone grafting Hello doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my right wrist for over two years. I have seen many doctors who said there was no bone injury and that it was a ligament strain. Recently, one doctor finally diagnosed it as a scaphoid fracture, but due to ...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Readers, The diagnosis of a scaphoid fracture relies on the patient's history, symptoms, and X-ray examinations. Scaphoid fractures can be difficult to detect on standard anteroposterior and lateral X-rays due to overlapping images, often requiring special angled X-ray...[Read More] Understanding Vascularized Bone Grafting for Scaphoid Fractures
Understanding Ankle Fractures: Recovery, Risks, and Treatment Options
Ankle fracture I have had an ankle fracture for three months now. Today, I went for an X-ray, and the doctor said there are no significant signs of healing in the fracture line. It is possible that microvascular damage occurred, and even if the bone heals, there is a risk of necr...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Currently, there are no medications available to promote fracture healing. However, fractures will heal on their own, given the necessary nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. If an ankle fracture has not healed after three months, it is still advisable to wait, as non-union i...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Fractures: Recovery, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Ankle Fractures: Recovery, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Ankle fracture 1. A month ago, I sustained a closed fracture of the right ankle due to a work accident. After X-rays and a CT scan, the doctor recommended the insertion of a metal screw, but it was also possible to forgo the screw. I chose not to have the screw and only had a cas...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If a fracture is non-displaced, the healing speed is similar whether or not steel pins are used. It is normal for the foot to swell when placed down, as there are many blood vessels within the bone. After a fracture, blood circulation is compromised, and it will take about three ...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Fractures: Recovery, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Post-Surgery Care and Nutrition for Complex Leg Fractures
Complex fractures of the leg! My father recently suffered a complex (comminuted) fracture of the tibia and ankle due to a fall at work. He is currently undergoing treatment, and I would like to understand how to provide proper postoperative care and nutritional support for patien...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, in response to your question about fracture healing, there are several factors to consider: 1. Mechanism of injury: Comminuted, high-energy, periarticular, and open fractures generally have a poorer healing outcome compared to simple fractures. 2. Individual factors: O...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care and Nutrition for Complex Leg Fractures
Understanding Elbow Dislocation Recovery: When to Seek Further Treatment
Dislocation Hello, I dislocated my right elbow completely on March 16 (without fractures). After two weeks in a cast, I was unable to achieve more than 90 degrees of joint movement (while the normal range is about 135 degrees). After a month of traditional Chinese medicine rehabi...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Regarding elbow dislocation, it primarily depends on the severity of the injury, which can be classified into simple dislocation and complex dislocation (including fractures). In the case of a simple dislocation, after reduction, if stability is achieved, a sling can be used for ...[Read More] Understanding Elbow Dislocation Recovery: When to Seek Further Treatment
Understanding Cast Angles: When to Use Large vs. Small Angles in Orthopedics
Apply a cast? Hello Doctor: I dislocated my elbow on March 16, and after rehabilitation, my recovery is still not good. The range of motion is significantly limited. I wonder if the angle at which the cast was applied (120 degrees) was too large, causing me ongoing issues with bo...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Regarding elbow dislocation, it primarily depends on the severity of the injury, which can be classified into simple dislocation and complex dislocation (including fractures). In the case of a simple dislocation, after reduction, if stability is achieved, a sling can be used for ...[Read More] Understanding Cast Angles: When to Use Large vs. Small Angles in Orthopedics
Which Specialist Should Your Friend See for Persistent Leg Pain?
Which specialty should I consult for this symptom? Hello: First, let me tell you about my friend's symptoms: 1. He has persistent thigh pain (the pain extends from the thigh down to the knee). 2. He cannot sit because the thigh becomes sore, tingling, and painful. 3. He can ...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Dear user, thank you for your detailed description of the symptoms. I will reorganize the issues as follows: Firstly, the full name of orthopedics is "Orthopedic Surgery," which encompasses issues related to bones, muscles, and joints. Therefore, the patient's co...[Read More] Which Specialist Should Your Friend See for Persistent Leg Pain?
Understanding Shockwave Therapy for Non-Healing Fractures
Shockwave!!!!!! My friend has had a fracture fixation for six months, but it has not healed. The doctor mentioned that if it does not heal, shockwave therapy might be necessary. The doctor also said that only large hospitals have this treatment. Could you please explain the benef...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Shockwave therapy can promote fracture healing, and there are many reports in the literature supporting this. However, its clinical application in Taiwan is still limited, with only a few larger hospitals equipped with such devices, and the cost is not inexpensive. In fact, there...[Read More] Understanding Shockwave Therapy for Non-Healing Fractures
Alternative Methods to Diagnose Bone Fracture Healing Without X-rays
To accurately diagnose whether a fracture has healed, what type of instrument should be used, excluding X-ray imaging? Hello, Director Shih! Generally, the healing time for a typical fracture under appropriate protective treatment is about three months before it can be confirmed ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
X-rays are the best method, and clinical examinations are also very accurate. If a patient can bear weight on the lower extremities without pain, it is the best evidence of healing. Similarly, if a patient can move, lift, or carry objects with the upper extremities without discom...[Read More] Alternative Methods to Diagnose Bone Fracture Healing Without X-rays