Understanding Joint Swelling and Deformation: Possible Causes and Solutions
Joint swelling, pain, and deformity? Hello Dr. Wang, I would like to ask you a question. My finger joints are swollen and deformed, with the joints being 2-3 times larger than normal. I have been examined and found no signs of gout or rheumatoid arthritis, but I experience pain f...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, joint swelling and deformity are not uncommon in the elderly, often related to long-term wear and tear leading to cartilage degeneration. However, due to the relatively low activity levels in older adults, they may not experience significant discomfort. I recommend startin...[Read More] Understanding Joint Swelling and Deformation: Possible Causes and Solutions
Managing Pain and Discomfort After Tibial Fracture Surgery
Postoperative care for tibial fractures? Hello doctor, in February of this year, I had a tibial fracture in my left ankle and underwent surgery for internal fixation with a plate. It has been six months since the surgery, but my foot still experiences persistent soreness and numb...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, fractures typically allow for full weight-bearing approximately three months after surgery. In your case, it is possible that a lack of weight-bearing for some time has led to stiffness in the tendons and joints. Please visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for further eva...[Read More] Managing Pain and Discomfort After Tibial Fracture Surgery
Understanding Ligament Harvesting and Its Impact on Finger Function
Fracture extraction of ligaments The ring finger and little finger were treated with a pin (self-paid steel pin), but there has been persistent suture material protruding that won't heal. After the self-paid pin procedure, the fingers remained in a drooping position. Subsequ...
Dr. Zhan Xian Reply:
Hello Mr. Huai-Zhen, the most common sequelae of a hammer toe are stiffness in the joints and an inability to fully extend the toe. Even after surgery or without surgery, it is still likely to have a bent angle. Regarding the ligaments harvested, the palmaris longus muscle is mos...[Read More] Understanding Ligament Harvesting and Its Impact on Finger Function
Post-Bilateral Hip Replacement: Recovery Tips and Exercise Guidelines
Bilateral total hip replacement? Hello, Doctor: I would like to inquire about issues related to bilateral total hip replacement: 1. Is it still necessary to use a pillow between my legs for sleeping after more than six months? 2. Can I ride a bike or drive? I have tried sitting o...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
1. Is it necessary to use a pillow for support after more than six months? ANS: In principle, it should not be necessary, but please let your attending physician decide. 2. Can I ride a motorcycle or drive? I have tried sitting on a motorcycle, but I can feel the prosthesis; I ...[Read More] Post-Bilateral Hip Replacement: Recovery Tips and Exercise Guidelines
Understanding Elbow Injuries: Recovery Time and What to Expect
Elbow issues I have been injured for about a month; it's a fascia strain, and I still can't fully bend my hand. I also had an X-ray, and the doctor said there was nothing wrong. Is it normal for it to take this long to heal?
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Soft tissue injuries near the joints typically take about six to eight weeks to heal, so it is advisable to wait and see. During this period, rehabilitation therapy can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Elbow Injuries: Recovery Time and What to Expect
Managing Swelling and Pain After Tibial Fracture Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Swelling five months after tibial fracture surgery? I apologize for the intrusion, Doctor. I was in a car accident on March 1st of this year, resulting in a fracture of the left tibia, which was repaired with plates and screws. I also fractured my coccyx, and my attending physici...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello, regarding these questions, in order to provide accurate information, it may be necessary to review the imaging and physical examination from the time of your injury as well as your current recovery status. Additionally, these questions should be addressed by your attending...[Read More] Managing Swelling and Pain After Tibial Fracture Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Lumbar Pain: When to Consider Surgery for Hip Issues
Lumbar pain Hello, Dr. Wang! Over the past year, I initially experienced soreness and pain on the outer side of my knee after walking for a long time. Six months later, I started to feel pain in my right lumbar region (specifically from the right side of my lower back, through my...
Dr. Wang Jiacheng Reply:
It is recommended that you refer to the information provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, as follows: Shared Decision Making (SDM) encourages patients to bravely express their questions and thoughts, helping healthcare providers understand the patients' needs. It a...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Pain: When to Consider Surgery for Hip Issues
Understanding Joint and Cartilage Development: Key Growth Milestones
Issues related to height development? Hello, Doctor. Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions despite your busy schedule. I have two questions to ask you: 1. At what age do the joints and cartilage in a normal person typically reach maturity and stop growi...
Dr. Xie Hongjia Reply:
Ms. Cindy: Hello, the thickness of the cartilage is not significant, being less than 0.5 cm, which has a minimal impact on height and can be considered negligible. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Joint and Cartilage Development: Key Growth Milestones
Understanding Temporary Joint Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Transient joint pain Hello, two days ago I noticed that my finger joints in my hands experience brief pain (lasting about 1 to 2 seconds, occurring once or twice, then disappearing). There is no pain when using the joints, and there is no redness or swelling, but when I forcefull...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
There's no need to rush; just wait for your appointment time to return for your consultation. Rheumatoid arthritis can still be treated effectively.[Read More] Understanding Temporary Joint Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Bone Spurs on the Little Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Bunionette (Tailor's bunion) In recent months, I have experienced pain in the bone about 1 cm below the outer side of my little toe whenever I wear shoes and walk. I have tried wide-toed shoes, but the pain persists, causing significant discomfort. I visited a clinic for an ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Degeneration of bones and joints may lead to hyperplasia. 2. Reduce pressure on the affected area by minimizing walking and standing. 3. Decrease stimulation; if there is pain, rest is necessary. 4. If the pain has lessened, walking or brisk walking can be resumed.[Read More] Understanding Bone Spurs on the Little Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Hip Joint Issues: Should You Seek Treatment?
Hip joint issues Hello, doctor! I am seventeen years old. Six years ago, I fell while riding a snake board and landed on my right side. I experienced pain for about a week, but it eventually went away. However, I still feel like my right leg is slightly shorter than my left, by l...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, based on your condition, you should first go to the hospital for an examination to determine if there are any issues with your spine and lower limb joints before discussing the need for treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Sincerely, Wang Shou-ji.[Read More] Understanding Hip Joint Issues: Should You Seek Treatment?
Understanding Growth Plate Closure and Cartilage Development in Orthopedics
Developmental issues Hello, Doctor. Thank you for your patience. I have a few questions to ask you. The first question is: If the growth plates of the bones have closed, can we also conclude that the cartilage between the joints (such as the cartilage in the knee and spine) wil...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, cartilage is an elastic structure that does not have a significant impact on height; the length of the bones is the primary factor affecting height. The thickest part of the articular cartilage is less than 0.5 cm, which has little effect on height. Changhua Hospital cares...[Read More] Understanding Growth Plate Closure and Cartilage Development in Orthopedics
Understanding Unexplained Limb Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Unexplained pain in the limbs? Five days ago, I started experiencing unexplained pain in the bones of my hands and feet, including the palms and backs of my hands and feet. The pain feels similar to a tightness sensation. Other joints also experience pain, and sometimes when I mo...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It could be due to overuse if there are symptoms of redness, swelling, heat, and pain. This may indicate rheumatism or arthritis, so it would be advisable to consult a physician.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Limb Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Unexplained Joint Pain and Swelling: A Comprehensive Guide
Knee and fingertip heat, swelling, and pain? Hello Doctor, if there are multiple areas of the body that frequently experience unexplained swelling and pain, along with fever, and there is a feeling of swelling in the knees (both inner and outer sides), fingertips, toes, behind th...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if you experience swelling, pain, and fever in your joints that migrates to multiple areas, it is important to first consider potential issues with the immune system. Musculoskeletal pain is often more prevalent and tends to worsen with activity. In cases of rheumatic pain...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Joint Pain and Swelling: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Strains and Fractures: When to Seek Orthopedic Advice
Inquire about the possibility of a strain or fracture? Hello, Doctor. While I was mopping the floor, I accidentally slipped a bit, but I didn't fall; I just twisted my body and spread my legs. I'm not sure if this could have caused a strain in my lower back or a fractur...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is normal to hear sounds; a strain is possible, but it is not easy for a bone to dislocate.[Read More] Understanding Strains and Fractures: When to Seek Orthopedic Advice
Understanding Missing Finger Joints: Is It Normal for My Daughter?
Finger joints Hello Dr. Wang, I have a question to ask you. My daughter has one less phalanx on her ring fingers compared to others. Is this phenomenon normal?
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if there are no abnormalities during activity, it is generally not a concern, but you should still monitor for any other associated issues. Please consult the pediatric orthopedic outpatient clinic. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Wang Shou-ji.[Read More] Understanding Missing Finger Joints: Is It Normal for My Daughter?
Improving Recovery from Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Tips for Pain and Swelling
Left tibiofibular fracture, right calcaneal fracture? Hello Doctor: I had surgery last September and started using a walker in January. Now, when I walk, my foot becomes red (sometimes resembling a bruise), and it also swells and hurts on the sole. What methods can help improve t...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, after a lower limb fracture, prolonged local swelling can lead to poor venous return in the lower extremities. To alleviate swelling and pain, elevating the legs and performing hydrotherapy (alternating hot and cold water immersion), as well as exercising the joints throug...[Read More] Improving Recovery from Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Tips for Pain and Swelling
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 Human Cartilage Development and Its Changes After Puberty
Development of Human Cartilage Hello, Doctor. I have two questions to ask. 1. At what age does the development of human cartilage typically stop? 2. I understand that once the growth plates close, the development of hard bone ceases. Does this mean that after the completion of...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
1. Cartilage can be classified into three main types: hyaline cartilage, fibrocartilage, and elastic cartilage. The cartilage found in the joints of the limbs is hyaline cartilage, which generally ceases to grow after adulthood. 2. Yes.[Read More] Understanding Human Cartilage Development and Its Changes After Puberty
Understanding Slow Healing After L5S1 Fusion Surgery: Concerns and Solutions
L5-S1 vertebral arch fracture has been surgically treated? Hello Doctor, I underwent L5-S1 spinal fusion and internal fixation surgery due to a vertebral fracture at the end of last year. It has been three months since the surgery, and during my follow-up X-ray, it was found that...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if healing is not complete, continuous monitoring is necessary. With the current surgical techniques, the likelihood of completely removing intervertebral tissue is quite high. However, spinal fusion surgery can lead to early degeneration of adjacent joints, which is diffi...[Read More] Understanding Slow Healing After L5S1 Fusion Surgery: Concerns and Solutions