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
Persistent Chest and Hip Pain After Car Accident: What to Know
Hip pain and chest pain? Hello: Last Friday, I was involved in a collision, and afterward, I experienced left chest pain and shortness of breath, so I went directly to the emergency room. An X-ray was taken, and it was reported that there were no obvious rib fractures. I was pres...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, chest contusion pain is quite common and may require a longer duration of analgesic use, typically alleviating after three to four weeks. If you continue to experience severe pain, it is advisable to undergo a re-evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Since...[Read More] Persistent Chest and Hip Pain After Car Accident: What to Know
Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Recovery and Mobility Tips
Fifth metatarsal fracture Hello, doctor. I sustained a fracture of the fifth metatarsal in my left foot due to a car accident on April 14. The X-ray showed a small fracture on the lateral side of the fifth metatarsal, resembling a split nail. During my follow-up appointment on th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is possible to distribute some weight on it, and one can either stand or squat on it.[Read More] Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Recovery and Mobility Tips
Effective Recovery Strategies for Achilles Tendonitis: Beyond Medication
Achilles tendonitis Hello Doctor, last week I visited a nearby orthopedic clinic due to pain in my heel. The doctor diagnosed it as Achilles tendinitis. However, the doctor only prescribed muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory medication, and advised me to soak my foot in warm w...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, for tendonitis of the foot, in addition to medication treatment, it is important to pay attention to heat therapy and wear shoes that are soft and provide adequate arch support. Additionally, perform foot stretching exercises regularly, and you may consider consulting a re...[Read More] Effective Recovery Strategies for Achilles Tendonitis: Beyond Medication
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
Neck Pain After Cervical Impact: Seeking Solutions for Recovery
Cervical spine impact pain issues? Hello, Doctor. In mid-December 2019, I performed a backflip catch during a cheerleading competition, and my cervical spine directly hit the ground. At that moment, I experienced symptoms such as chest tightness and nausea. Due to the neck pain, ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Injuries to the cervical spine may not involve fractures of the bones, but there is a possibility of damage to the surrounding soft tissues, which typically requires more than three months to heal. Continued rehabilitation is necessary and may lead to improvement.[Read More] Neck Pain After Cervical Impact: Seeking Solutions for Recovery
Height Issues Affecting Career: Exploring Limb Lengthening Surgery Options
Due to height issues, my work has not been going well? Hello doctor, I am currently 30 years old and my height is only 165 cm. I used to work as a print model in an entertainment agency, and initially, my career was going well. However, due to my height, the company decided to st...
Dr. Zhan Xian Reply:
Hello Mr. Tsai, currently in Taiwan, limb lengthening surgery cannot be performed due to legal issues. In fact, there are many complications associated with this procedure, which may lead to nerve damage and even difficulties with walking. It is advisable not to be overly fixated...[Read More] Height Issues Affecting Career: Exploring Limb Lengthening Surgery Options
Chronic Neck Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Long-Term Effects
Chronic pain in the posterior neck? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent pain in my neck for several months, accompanied by a cracking sound. A few weeks ago, I visited a major hospital and saw an orthopedic specialist who took X-rays and said there were no issues. T...
Dr. Zhan Xian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen, if you have already visited a major hospital for consultation, it should not be a serious issue. You can start with rehabilitation, and if there is no improvement, you can return for a follow-up to see if further examinations are necessary.[Read More] Chronic Neck Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Long-Term Effects
Is My Pain Sciatica? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
I would like to ask the doctor if my symptoms are indicative of sciatica? On the evening of January 20th, after singing, I suddenly felt pain in my lower back while walking home, thinking I had strained my back. When I got up on January 21st, the pain in my lower back was so seve...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic. After a diagnosis by the physician, please have the attending physician provide an explanation.[Read More] Is My Pain Sciatica? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Understanding Ankle Sprains: Recovery, Treatment, and Recurrence
Ankle sprain In February of this year, I sprained the inner side of my ankle. At that time, I had an X-ray taken, which showed no fractures. The doctor only prescribed a topical analgesic ointment. Later, I also consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took herba...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
It is recommended to visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for treatment.[Read More] Understanding Ankle Sprains: Recovery, Treatment, and Recurrence
Do Noodles Influence Height Growth? Understanding Growth Plates and Nutrition
Issues with growth plates? Hello, Doctor. First of all, I wish you a Happy New Year, and may your family be safe and everything go smoothly. I have two questions to ask you: 1. Are there any formal medical reports indicating that consuming flour can lead to increased height? I ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. The impact of food on height is not significant; a balanced diet can support growth. The most influential factor on height is genetics. If the parents are tall, their children are likely to be taller as well, and vice versa. 2. Once growth plates have closed, it is not possibl...[Read More] Do Noodles Influence Height Growth? Understanding Growth Plates and Nutrition
Evaluating Recovery Options for Femoral Fractures: Seeking Third Opinion
Recovery from femoral fracture? Hello Dr. Chen, I suffered a comminuted femoral fracture in September 2017. It has been over two years since the surgery, and I am currently under the care of two physicians (hereafter referred to as A and B). However, their opinions on my conditio...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, based on your X-ray, the bone callus has developed quite well. Additionally, as you described, movement is not an issue. I personally believe it will continue to improve, so don't worry.[Read More] Evaluating Recovery Options for Femoral Fractures: Seeking Third Opinion
Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Medications for Ankylosing Spondylitis during Pregnancy I would like to ask the doctor, I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis and have been taking hydroxychloroquine for 4 months. My inflammatory markers in blood tests are normal, and the doctor advised taking one pil...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, according to the literature, CELECOR may lead to premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus. Therefore, pregnant patients, especially those in the later stages of pregnancy (after 30 weeks), should avoid its use. It is recommended to consult the prescribing ph...[Read More] Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Can Pain Be Intermittent?
I would like to ask the doctor about the symptoms of gout? Hello, Doctor. Yesterday afternoon, while going down the stairs, I suddenly felt discomfort in my left ankle halfway down. Although it was bearable at first, since my job requires me to walk frequently and go up and down ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Gout attacks typically present with localized joint redness, swelling, heat, and pain. If these symptoms are absent, it is less likely to be gout. Patients with chronic hyperuricemia may not necessarily experience an attack. It may be advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Can Pain Be Intermittent?
Achilles Tendonitis Recovery: Timeline and Effective Rehabilitation Tips
Achilles tendinitis Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with Achilles tendinitis about five days ago. As an athlete, I have started resting and have not engaged in any training except for daily walking. I would like to know how long it typically takes to fully recover from tendinitis ...
Dr. Zhan Xian Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ming. The degree of recovery varies from person to person, but typically there is improvement within a week. If there are factors such as overuse, there is a possibility of relapse. If symptoms persist for more than a week, consider physical therapy modalities such as...[Read More] Achilles Tendonitis Recovery: Timeline and Effective Rehabilitation Tips
Post-Surgery Infection in Knee Replacement: Understanding Antibiotic Options and Treatment Challenges
Postoperative Infection after Total Knee Arthroplasty My father has undergone three total knee replacements and two debridement surgeries on his left knee. I have some concerns and would like to seek clarification from the physician. 1. Do antibiotic prescriptions for Staphyloc...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. Different hospitals have varying medication protocols; it is advisable to choose a trusted institution for treatment. 2. Infections in artificial joints sometimes do not yield detectable bacteria; at this stage, treatment options include antibiotics and further debridement. ...[Read More] Post-Surgery Infection in Knee Replacement: Understanding Antibiotic Options and Treatment Challenges
Can Artificial Tendons Restore Function in a Deformed Thumb?
Are there artificial tendons for fingers? My left thumb has been missing a tendon since childhood. I'm not sure if it was congenital or if it was severed later, but it causes my thumb to be unable to extend properly and to bend. I would like to know if there are artificial t...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: The phenomenon you described strongly suggests that medical evaluation in a clinical setting is necessary to accurately identify your underlying issues. It is essential to first determine the true problem in order to find a reasonable solution. If your condition is indeed ...[Read More] Can Artificial Tendons Restore Function in a Deformed Thumb?
Post-Surgery Pain After Removal of Ankle Fracture Plate: What to Expect?
Pain after removal of the plate following a fracture of the left calcaneus? Hello Dr. You: In January of this year, I fell from a 3-meter ladder, resulting in a closed comminuted fracture of my left heel. I had a steel plate and artificial bone implanted. My recovery has been rel...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: Were you diagnosed with a fracture of the calcaneus? If so, this type of fracture is indeed considered to have a poorer prognosis. Additionally, during your treatment, did you experience any signs of infection? It is quite unusual for symptoms to worsen nine months after t...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain After Removal of Ankle Fracture Plate: What to Expect?
Understanding Distal Radius Fractures: Risks of Arthritis After Surgery
Distal radius comminuted fracture The injury occurred while playing basketball, resulting in a comminuted fracture of the distal radius. Surgical fixation with a plate has been performed. Given the severe damage to the joint surface at the time of injury, is it certain that arthr...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: Medical procedures are rarely described in absolutes. We can only say that there is a possibility of developing post-traumatic arthritis, but whether the risk is high or low depends on the severity of your injury at the time, the extent of rehabilitation after surgery, the...[Read More] Understanding Distal Radius Fractures: Risks of Arthritis After Surgery
Understanding Metatarsal Injuries: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Metatarsal issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an injury I sustained on September 3rd. While I was out, my left foot's second metatarsal area was lightly pressed by the side of a motorcycle, resulting in a small cut and a fairly deep bruise. There was some pain, b...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms you described, it is unlikely that there is a fracture. Additionally, since the symptoms are mild, even if there were a fracture, surgical treatment would not be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Metatarsal Injuries: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options