Can You Climb Stairs After a Year of Lumbar Spine Fracture?
"Is it safe to climb stairs regularly one year after a burst fracture of the third vertebra?" Hello Dr. Shen, I sustained a burst fracture of the third lumbar vertebra due to a car accident, with a compression of 0.4 cm at the third lumbar vertebra. I have been undergoi...
Dr. Shen Boquan Reply:
Hello, netizen. You have a fracture of the third lumbar vertebra that has healed for a year without pain. Climbing stairs can put a significant strain on your knees. If you do not experience noticeable knee pain or back pain, it should not have a major impact. However, if you exp...[Read More] Can You Climb Stairs After a Year of Lumbar Spine Fracture?
Misdiagnosis in Orthopedics: From Hip Avascular Necrosis to Unnecessary Spinal Fusion
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head, yet underwent total lumbar fusion? In October 2022, I experienced sudden pain in my left lower limb and groin, along with a sensation of leg length discrepancy and limping. I went to the neurosurgery department at Tainan Medical Center, whe...
Dr. Shen Boquan Reply:
There are many possible causes of discomfort and pain in the lower limbs, including muscle pain, joint inflammation, and lumbar nerve compression commonly known as sciatica. Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is also a possibility. Sometimes, these conditions can occur simult...[Read More] Misdiagnosis in Orthopedics: From Hip Avascular Necrosis to Unnecessary Spinal Fusion
Persistent Leg Numbness and Pain After Lumbar Injury: What to Do?
Numbness and pain in the legs after a spinal injury? About three months ago, I accidentally bumped the right side of my lumbar spine while changing positions in a chair. Shortly after, I began to experience numbness and pain in my right leg. A week later, I visited a rehabilitati...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It may be sciatica, and further evaluation at the hospital is necessary.[Read More] Persistent Leg Numbness and Pain After Lumbar Injury: What to Do?
Understanding L3 Vertebral Decompression Surgery: Risks and Recovery Insights
At that time, I was eager to find a one-time solution? Due to an injury from lifting heavy objects, I have been experiencing symptoms similar to sciatica for a long time without identifying the cause. At an orthopedic clinic, I discovered that I have L3 vertebral arch dissociatio...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Each individual's condition and recovery process varies. It is recommended to follow up with the original treating physician or consult an orthopedic specialist at a regional hospital or higher for a second opinion. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding L3 Vertebral Decompression Surgery: Risks and Recovery Insights
Understanding Foot Numbness and Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Doctor, may I ask? Hello Doctor, six months ago I experienced tingling and numbness in both feet, along with lower back pain. An X-ray showed that I have wear and tear in my lumbar spine, which the doctor attributed to sports injuries. I have been playing badminton and working ou...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Avoid prolonged sitting and bending; engage in jogging for a while. If there is no improvement, then consider visiting a rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Understanding Foot Numbness and Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Morning Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Muscle Weakness?
Unable to bend over upon waking up in the morning? Hello Doctor: I am 39 years old and had minimally invasive surgery for bone spurs on my lumbar spine at L2 or L3 ten years ago. In recent years, I have been experiencing frequent episodes of lumbar strain, and every morning I wak...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Muscle issues may be alleviated with heat therapy, and continuing rehabilitation could lead to improvement. Additionally, muscle relaxants can be taken to help relieve discomfort.[Read More] Morning Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Muscle Weakness?
Persistent Knee Pain After Years: Seeking Advanced Treatment Options
Pain behind the left knee joint for N years, unable to walk for long periods (about 30 minutes before pain occurs)? 1. I have consulted with the orthopedic departments at Shuang Ho Hospital, Veterans General Hospital, and Tri-Service General Hospital. They have all recommended me...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Pain behind the knee can have various causes, including trauma, sports injuries, knee degeneration, poor posture, prolonged sitting or standing, and damage to the lumbar spine or posterior cruciate ligament. It is advisable to undergo a thorough examination and then treat accordi...[Read More] Persistent Knee Pain After Years: Seeking Advanced Treatment Options
Understanding Lumbar Compression Fractures: Recovery and Brace Guidance
Vertebral fracture Hello, Doctor! I sustained a "burst fracture of the third lumbar vertebra" due to a car accident. In addition to the fracture, the third lumbar vertebra is compressed by 0.3 cm. Since there was no nerve damage, the attending physician determined that ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Approximately three to six. 2. You can give it a try. 3. Avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects. 4. You can try climbing, but the most important thing is to visit the outpatient clinic to check if the fracture is healing and whether the vertebral body of the lumbar...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Compression Fractures: Recovery and Brace Guidance
Understanding Post-Surgery Spinal Issues: Pain, Risks, and Options
Post-spinal surgery Hello, doctor. I am an 8-year post-operative patient with scoliosis. Initially, my curvature was about 40 degrees, with an S-shaped curve extending from the thoracic to the lumbar spine, nearly 30 cm long. The last two segments of my lumbar spine were not fuse...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, thank you for your hard work. Your issue is quite complex, and you should seek an in-person evaluation from a specialist in scoliosis. I recommend a few scoliosis specialists: Dr. Hsien-Te Chen, Chief of Orthopedics at China Medical University Hospital; Dr. Chien-Chun Chan...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Spinal Issues: Pain, Risks, and Options
Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Lumbar and sacral spine issues? Hello doctor, on September 4, 2023, I twisted my ankle while moving branches and hit the root of the branch. The trunk pressed against my groin area, but I have no bruising or external injuries. Currently, there is only slight pain in the groin are...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
A spinal contusion without a fracture typically heals within four weeks. Applying heat or taking pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Understanding Lumbar Spine Injuries: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Lumbar spine issues Dear Dr. Shih, I hope this message finds you well! I was involved in a car accident on the highway, where I was rear-ended by another vehicle. The emergency assessment diagnosed me with a "burst fracture of the third vertebra," with a 0.3 cm vertebr...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Approximately three months. 2. Three months, because the healing of a fracture takes that long. 3. If the deformity from a vertebral compression fracture is not severe, there typically won't be any long-term complications. After healing, it is important to practice abdomi...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Injuries: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Conservative Treatment for Lumbar Spine Fractures: Recovery Insights
Lumbar vertebral fracture, conservative treatment? Hello, Dr. You! Two weeks ago, I was in a car accident on the highway, where I was rear-ended by another vehicle and subsequently taken to the emergency room. After undergoing a CT scan and X-rays, the doctor diagnosed me with a ...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
1. It has been 17 days since the incident. When I walk or sit with the brace today, I still feel soreness on both sides of the spinal injury. Is this due to the spinal injury not healing properly, or could it be muscle soreness from lying down for too long? Should I monitor for a...[Read More] Conservative Treatment for Lumbar Spine Fractures: Recovery Insights
Understanding Recovery Time for Closed Fractures After a Car Accident
Recovery from fractures due to car accidents? Hello, doctor. I was recently involved in a car accident that resulted in closed fractures of my ribs, clavicle, and scapula. After evaluation by my physician, it was determined that conservative treatment would be sufficient. I would...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It will heal in about three months and will not worsen.[Read More] Understanding Recovery Time for Closed Fractures After a Car Accident
Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: When to Consider a Job Change
Herniated discs at the third, fourth, and fifth lumbar vertebrae? Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well. I usually work as a delivery driver for construction materials, which requires me to lift heavy objects and dispose of waste. I often have to manually load items onto ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, Tianceng. Your health is your most important asset. Here are some suggestions for you: 1. Use the least harmful and most efficient methods to lift heavy objects (reduce bending at the waist and engage your gluteal and thigh muscles for strength). 2. Use a lumbar support. 3...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: When to Consider a Job Change
Understanding DXA Bone Density Results: What Do Low T-Scores Mean?
Inquiry about DXA bone density examination? Hello Doctor: A 35-year-old male underwent a health check at a hospital arranged by his company, and the DXA bone density report indicated the following: BMD of L1, L2, L3, and L4 (gm/cm²): 0.892, T score: -2.8, Z score: -1.8. The test ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is advisable to monitor vitamin D and calcium supplementation every six months to a year. Drinking one or two cups of coffee is acceptable, and getting sunlight exposure is also beneficial.[Read More] Understanding DXA Bone Density Results: What Do Low T-Scores Mean?
Managing Sciatica Pain: Effective Strategies for Relief and Recovery
Sciatic nerve compression causing multiple areas of pain? I previously had an examination where the doctor mentioned that all five segments of my lumbar spine were damaged and recommended rehabilitation to restore function. I visited several clinics, but none were able to allevia...
Dr. Wang Jiacheng Reply:
To accurately diagnose whether the spinal pain is due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, it is recommended that you consult a specialized spine surgeon for an evaluation and then pursue appropriate treatment options.[Read More] Managing Sciatica Pain: Effective Strategies for Relief and Recovery
Managing Acute Compression Fractures of the Lumbar Spine: A Patient's Guide
Acute compression fracture of the first lumbar vertebra? About six months ago, I was hit on the head by a fallen tree trunk. After taking only pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication, I experienced persistent lower back pain for three months. After examination, I was diagnos...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin, if follow-up X-rays show that the compression fracture has healed three months after the injury and you do not experience any pain during movement, you can gradually discontinue the use of the back brace and return to normal activities. However, it is important to ...[Read More] Managing Acute Compression Fractures of the Lumbar Spine: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Next Steps
Lumbar spine issues? Following up on the previous article, I recently visited a neurology clinic and underwent an examination of my limbs. The doctor mentioned that everything was generally normal, but there was a slight abnormality in the lumbar region, specifically at the fourt...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Currently, the numbness in my hands and feet has improved after taking medication, but my doctor did not prescribe any further medication. I'm concerned whether the symptoms will worsen after stopping the medication. If they do worsen, which specialty should I fo...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Next Steps
Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions After Multiple Treatments
Lower back pain? Two and a half years ago, I injured my left lower back and hip while lifting something heavy. I sought treatment from both traditional Chinese medicine with acupuncture and Western medicine with electrical therapy, heat packs, and stretching, but none were effect...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you seek a reassessment from another hospital of a higher medical center level or consult with an orthopedic or neurosurgery specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions After Multiple Treatments
Optimal Sitting Posture for Spinal Health: A Guide for Patients
The impact of sitting posture on the spine? I would like to ask the doctor about the correct sitting posture, as I have spinal stenosis issues. I had an injury to my coccyx when I was younger, and I have been feeling better after recent workouts. Now, I want to adjust my sitting ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, both sitting postures are correct and suitable for different situations. Besides the sitting posture, it is more important to get up and move around after sitting for more than 30 minutes to protect the spine.[Read More] Optimal Sitting Posture for Spinal Health: A Guide for Patients