Understanding L5-S1 Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Low back pain Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. Is the gap between the L5 and S1 vertebrae narrower compared to other areas? The gap in my X-rays from June 2004 and June 2008 appears to be similar. However, after sneezing while standing in November 2008, I experienced...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The gap between the lumbar vertebrae and the sacral vertebrae should be the same. Your symptoms are more indicative of an acute back strain, which typically requires rest and medication for treatment. Physical therapy or heat therapy can be effective, so you might want to give th...[Read More] Understanding L5-S1 Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Accessory Bones: Impact on Ankle Pain and Leg Alignment
Accessory navicular bone Hello Doctor: A year ago, I noticed pain in my ankle, accompanied by a cracking sound when I rotated it. After seeing a doctor, I was told it was an issue with an accessory bone, and I was advised to get orthotic insoles. However, in the past few months, ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Based on your description, it seems that you have a painful protrusion located just anterior and inferior to the medial malleolus of the ankle. This condition is often associated with flatfoot. The surgical outcomes tend to be poorer if flatfoot is also present, and foot pain can...[Read More] Understanding Accessory Bones: Impact on Ankle Pain and Leg Alignment
Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Low back pain? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question: On the morning of February 8th, when I got up and bent down to wash my face, I suddenly felt pain in both sides of my lower back, with the left side being more painful than the right. I also felt weak and unable to...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Lower back and shoulder pain is usually caused by improper use or poor posture, and it typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks to heal. It is recommended to apply cold compresses for the first 3 days, followed by heat therapy (5 minutes each time, 5 times a day). Additionally, muscle ...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Non-Surgical Treatments for Bone Spurs: Options and Care Tips
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about issues related to bone spurs. A friend’s father, who is in his sixties, has recently experienced significant discomfort in his lower back after prolonged standing or sitting. He went to the hospital for an examination and...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Spinal bone spurs causing stenosis can affect lower limb mobility. In cases where the condition is severe, surgical intervention should be considered in addition to medication and rehabilitation, to prevent worsening and potential permanent lower limb dysfunction. If the issue is...[Read More] Non-Surgical Treatments for Bone Spurs: Options and Care Tips
Cold Weather Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Aftermath of Treatment?
Spine Cold weather can cause discomfort in the lower back and spine, making it difficult to walk upright and resulting in weakness in the legs. I had a spinal tap when I was younger. Could this be a long-term effect? Which specialist should I see? Thank you.
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
1. Performing a lumbar puncture will not cause spinal stenosis or nerve compression. 2. Back pain and sciatica can lead to an inability to walk upright, causing leg pain, and prolonged nerve compression in the lumbar region can result in weakness in the legs. Therefore, it is rec...[Read More] Cold Weather Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Aftermath of Treatment?
Post-Surgery Concerns: Addressing Complications After HIVD Treatment
Post-HIVD surgery Dear Director, My mother underwent surgery for HIVD (herniated intervertebral disc) and spinal stenosis at the L3-L5 levels at the Taipei Municipal Hospital, performed by a neurosurgeon. She opted for a self-funded artificial joint (a round one), which cost ove...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The cause may be the displacement of the implanted device, but this must be confirmed through X-ray examination. It is also possible that the original spinal stenosis has not been resolved, leading to continued compression of the spinal nerves. If either of these situations occur...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns: Addressing Complications After HIVD Treatment
Understanding Nerve Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment for Lower Back Issues
Examination of Lumbar Nerves Dear Dr. Wang, I frequently used the computer for long hours about six months ago. Before the Lunar New Year, I noticed abnormal pain in the joints of my big toes; afterward, it felt like my feet were being shocked while walking. Whenever I experienc...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Mr. Zhang: Based on your symptoms and medical history, it does not appear to be typical sciatica. Gout should also improve and not persist continuously. As for the possibility of muscle compression in the buttocks affecting the nerve, that is less likely. I'm not sure how yo...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment for Lower Back Issues
Understanding L5 Vertebral Fractures and Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: Treatment Insights
Fracture of the lumbar vertebral arch at the fifth lumbar vertebra with lumbar spondylolisthesis? Hello Director Shi, I have been suffering from a fracture of the lumbar vertebrae and lumbar spondylolisthesis at the fifth lumbar vertebra for over ten years. Three years ago, I und...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
After surgery for spondylolisthesis, if the bone fusion is complete, symptoms can be alleviated, and at that time, the screws can be removed. The removal of the screws carries minimal risk. Damage to the intervertebral disc can cause pain; therefore, it is advisable to undergo re...[Read More] Understanding L5 Vertebral Fractures and Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: Treatment Insights
Understanding Muscle Strain and Pain in the Legs: Causes and Solutions
Regarding leg pain, tightness, and weakness..? I have a question regarding muscle fiber tears in the calves and thighs. I work in the electronics industry, where I have to stand and walk briskly all day, and sometimes even run to meet deadlines. I typically work over eight hours ...
Dr. Lin Yijun Reply:
Hello Ah Hao: Your excessive muscle use, especially engaging in intense activities without proper warm-up, can often lead to muscle strains, and this reasoning is reasonable. Additionally, since you have consulted with orthopedics, rheumatology, and neurology, and have undergone ...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Strain and Pain in the Legs: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Knee and Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Knee pain and lower back pain? Hello, I would like to ask about my knee pain. It started with pain on the side, and then the entire knee became uncomfortable. It hurts not only when I walk, but also suddenly while sitting. Additionally, I have lower back pain. I previously had bl...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Ray: If the knee pain did not occur after a severe injury, the likelihood of a significant problem is low. However, if the pain persists even while sitting at rest, it is advisable to visit an orthopedic clinic for X-rays and a physical examination. For back pain, it is essential...[Read More] Understanding Knee and Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms and Solutions for Pain Relief
I would like to ask if this is sciatica? Hello Dr. Yeh, I would like to ask about sciatica. I have been experiencing a long-standing issue where, after sitting for a while, I feel a dull ache in the front side of my left thigh where it connects to my lower back (I apologize for ...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Hello Sir: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following advice: Generally speaking, sciatica is caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and numbness that radiates from the buttocks down the back of the thigh, ...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms and Solutions for Pain Relief
Understanding Limited Mobility and Pain in the Lower Back
Lower back pain with limited mobility in the lumbar region? Hello, doctor. Recently, I noticed that when I wake up in the morning, my lower back hurts whenever I move. It doesn't hurt when I keep my back straight, but I am completely unable to bend or twist my waist. If I st...
Dr. Luo Zhongwei Reply:
Dear Mr. A: Based on your description, we first need to perform an X-ray and other basic examinations to establish a diagnosis and determine the subsequent treatment plan. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Limited Mobility and Pain in the Lower Back
Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
Herniated disc? Ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Wang, I apologize for the lengthy message... ^^" Last year during the Lunar New Year, I was squatting down while holding a child, and at that moment, I felt fine. However, later that night, I suddenly experienced severe lower...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Ms. Lin: Generally speaking, young women without a family history have a low chance of developing ankylosing spondylitis. It is mostly likely a problem with the muscles or soft tissues. If there are accompanying symptoms such as lower limb numbness or sciatica, those cannot be ru...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
How to Assess Your Spine Health: A Guide for Yoga Practitioners
How to conduct a spinal health examination? Hello Dr. Wang: Recently, when performing yoga back-bending movements, I feel a sensation of something foreign in the most concave part of my lower back (it's not painful), and that area of the bone protrudes slightly when my back ...
Dr. Wang Zikang Reply:
Hello: At the age of thirty, bone density has not yet reached its peak, so osteoporosis should not be a concern at this age. The posterior curvature of the spine is a normal anatomical structure. If there are any doubts, you may visit our orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluati...[Read More] How to Assess Your Spine Health: A Guide for Yoga Practitioners
Managing Spine Bone Spurs and Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Home Relief
Lumbar spine bone spurs and herniation? Hello Doctor, my mother has been diagnosed with bone spurs and a herniated disc in her lumbar spine, causing pain in her lower back and left leg, making it difficult for her to walk long distances or stand for extended periods. She has been...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Lumbar spinal stenosis is primarily caused by bone spurs or herniated discs that compress the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and an inability to stand for prolonged periods. Initially, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to alleviate symptoms; however, if these are ineffect...[Read More] Managing Spine Bone Spurs and Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Home Relief
Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Options
Low back pain? I have been experiencing sudden lower back pain since around February to March of this year, and the pain has become more pronounced. Now, whenever I sit for less than a minute, I start to feel a tingling sensation in my buttocks. I would like to know if this is se...
Dr. Wang Zikang Reply:
There are many causes of back pain. To determine the underlying cause, it is recommended that you visit an orthopedic clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Options
Understanding Scoliosis: Treatment Options and Surgery Considerations
Scoliosis What are the treatment methods for scoliosis (with pain)? Is surgery necessary? Can it be cured?
Dr. Wang Zikang Reply:
The severity of scoliosis is determined by the degree of curvature and whether it affects lung function. The muscle imbalance caused by the curvature can exacerbate pain in the shoulders, back, and lower back, and may sometimes lead to difficulties in sitting posture. If these sy...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Treatment Options and Surgery Considerations
Dealing with Lower Back Pain: What You Need to Know
I'm sorry, but I need more context or specific information to provide an appropriate response? I have been experiencing pain extending from my lower back to my legs when I lie flat at night. It feels like nerve pain. I also feel pain in my lower back when I cough. This has b...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, it could be lumbar fasciitis or sciatica. I recommend that you rest more, avoid standing, walking, or sitting for prolonged periods, refrain from heavy lifting, and minimize bending at the waist. If there is no improvement, please visit an orth...[Read More] Dealing with Lower Back Pain: What You Need to Know
What to Do If Your Bone Pins Break: A Guide for Young Patients
What should I do if a nail implanted in my body breaks? This year, I had spinal fusion surgery and had four screws placed. This month, I had an X-ray and found that two of the screws have broken. The doctor said that since two screws are broken, they do not need to be removed. Ho...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear User: Whether or not to remove a broken screw depends on whether it causes you significant discomfort or harm. If the broken screw is causing particular discomfort or injury, then removal should certainly be considered. The purpose of the fixation with screws is to provide i...[Read More] What to Do If Your Bone Pins Break: A Guide for Young Patients
Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to See an Orthopedic or Neurology Specialist
Strained my back? Due to lifting heavy specimens during experiments, I experienced soreness after returning home. Then, while doing laundry, I suddenly stood up and felt a sharp pain, making it difficult to stand upright. About a month later, I went hiking on Yushan. Now, if I st...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It sounds like a muscle strain in the back. It's best to consult an orthopedic doctor for a detailed evaluation, as it may heal on its own.[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to See an Orthopedic or Neurology Specialist