Understanding Spinal Development: Assessing Your Posture and Health
Spinal Development I do not have scoliosis, but I have had a habit of slouching since childhood. Although I don't always slouch, I often do when sitting. How can I determine if my spine has a normal S-curve? I've heard that after adulthood, the spine becomes fixed, so i...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
1. It is recommended that you undergo an X-ray examination to determine if the alignment of your spine is normal. 2. As long as the X-ray examination shows that the alignment of the spine is normal, indicating no structural issues, paying attention to posture and body mechanics c...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Development: Assessing Your Posture and Health
Best Sleeping Positions and Exercises for Scoliosis Management
Scoliosis Hello, I have a right thoracic curve and a left lumbar curve. What sleeping position should I adopt while side sleeping to avoid worsening my condition? Additionally, what types of exercises should I do to improve it? Thank you!
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, scoliosis typically does not worsen or improve the angle due to sleeping positions. It is advisable to avoid exercises that involve bending and lifting heavy weights, and activities such as swimming and stretching that strengthen the back and core muscles are more suitable...[Read More] Best Sleeping Positions and Exercises for Scoliosis Management
Understanding Height Growth and Spinal Issues in Young Adults
Height. Spine? Doctor, I would like to ask you about my situation. I am 18 years old and 162 cm tall. I have had my bone age assessed at the hospital, and the doctor simply said that since I am 18, I am done growing. I feel that this explanation is a bit too simplistic. Does this...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Height is generally influenced by several factors, aside from endocrine disorders, including 1. genetics, 2. nutrition, 3. sleep, and 4. physical activity. It cannot be determined solely by the height of the parents. For example, Yao Ming is taller than both of his parents. Conve...[Read More] Understanding Height Growth and Spinal Issues in Young Adults
Understanding Scoliosis: Surgery, Sleep Positions, and Daily Life Tips
Scoliosis Do I need surgery for scoliosis? If surgery is necessary, will it require general anesthesia? Is my scoliosis related to my sleeping position? I often sleep on my side or lie flat, but I tilt my head to one side. What should I pay attention to in my daily life with scol...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Scoliosis treatment depends on the degree of curvature; generally, if the curvature exceeds 35 to 40 degrees, surgical intervention should be considered. Poor posture does not typically cause a curvature greater than 15 degrees. Surgery requires general anesthesia and is n...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Surgery, Sleep Positions, and Daily Life Tips
Understanding Congenital Thoracic Spine Abnormalities and Their Implications
Congenital thoracic vertebral anomalies Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions. During my high school years, an X-ray revealed that my thoracic vertebrae T4-6 are not developing normally (the doctor diagnosed it as mild scoliosis). Recently, I went to National Taiwan ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, I'm not sure what the correct diagnosis for the "thoracic spine structural abnormality" you mentioned is. I wouldn't want to jump to conclusions, so please visit an orthopedic clinic for an examination. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Congenital Thoracic Spine Abnormalities and Their Implications
Surgical Options for Correcting Prominent Left Rib Edge: What You Need to Know
Is there an active surgical correction method for protrusion under the left rib margin? I have noticed a very prominent protrusion under my left rib cage for the past two years. I have consulted several doctors who suggested that it might be a complication caused by pectus excava...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If there is only discomfort without pain, surgery is not recommended, as it may not achieve your expected results. Additionally, the protrusion of the rib may be related to scoliosis, so it would be advisable to get an X-ray of the thoracic spine to check for any issues.[Read More] Surgical Options for Correcting Prominent Left Rib Edge: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Need for Full Body Bone Scans in Scoliosis Cases
Why is this examination necessary? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about something. Recently, I had an X-ray at the hospital, which revealed scoliosis in my thoracic spine. The orthopedic doctor said it was congenital, but shortly after, he discussed it with another doctor...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, I apologize, but I cannot address your concerns without your X-ray images for confirmation.[Read More] Understanding the Need for Full Body Bone Scans in Scoliosis Cases
Understanding Lateral Leaning of the Lower Back While Standing
When standing, there is an issue with lateral leaning of the lower back? In the past, I remember my waist being symmetrical when standing, but now it tends to tilt to one side. However, when I sit, the degree of tilt decreases, and when I lie down, my body appears normal. Previou...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If a patient has a herniated lumbar disc, undergoing rehabilitation and medication treatment for a period of time may lead to improvement. If there is no improvement, surgical intervention should be considered, and the patient should consult a physician for further management opt...[Read More] Understanding Lateral Leaning of the Lower Back While Standing
Understanding Scoliosis: When to Seek Help and Treatment Options
Scoliosis Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask which specialty I should see if I suspect I have severe scoliosis? If it is indeed very severe, is surgery the only treatment option? Is rehabilitation effective? I have noticed a significant difference in the height of my shoulders. A...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello: Scoliosis should be evaluated by an orthopedic specialist, who will perform X-rays to measure the curvature angle. If there is a cracking sound when turning the neck, it is usually harmless, but it can also be assessed by an orthopedic doctor and confirmed with X-rays. If ...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: When to Seek Help and Treatment Options
Understanding Recurring Lumbar Pain: Seeking Expert Advice on Diagnosis and Treatment
I would like to inquire about lumbar pain issues? Hello Dr. Lee: For the past two years, I have been experiencing recurrent lumbar pain. When the pain becomes severe, I visit a doctor, but the usual diagnosis is either a muscle strain or advice to pay attention to the spaces in...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, based on your X-ray, there is mild degeneration of the lumbar spine, with no signs of scoliosis or pelvic tilt. Your chronic back pain may be due to long-term work and poor sitting and standing posture, leading to myofascial pain syndrome. It is recommended that you contin...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Lumbar Pain: Seeking Expert Advice on Diagnosis and Treatment
Can I Apply for a Disability Certificate with Scoliosis and Titanium Implants?
Application for Disability Certificate for Spinal Conditions I would like to ask the doctor, due to scoliosis compressing my heart, I had to undergo surgery, and now I have ten titanium screws stabilizing my spine. One side of my chest is more prominent, and my pelvis is tilted t...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, according to the disability assessment form, fusion of five or more lumbar or lumbosacral vertebrae, along with a Schober test result of 2 centimeters or less for lumbar lordosis, is required for qualification. It is recommended that you personally visit the hospital where...[Read More] Can I Apply for a Disability Certificate with Scoliosis and Titanium Implants?
Understanding Scoliosis: Treatment Options and Growth Concerns
Scoliosis Hello Dr. Wang, I would like to inquire about scoliosis. I have a curvature of 30 to 40 degrees in my spine. I have been undergoing rehabilitation, but if the growth plates have closed and I continue with rehabilitation, will it prevent further straightening of my spine...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: When the Cobb's angle of scoliosis exceeds 30 to 40 degrees, conservative treatment is ineffective after adulthood. A small number of patients may continue to experience an increase in the angle, at which point surgical correction should be considered.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Treatment Options and Growth Concerns
Understanding Left Shoulder and Neck Pain: Causes and Solutions
Left shoulder and neck pain? Hello doctor, I would like to ask for your advice. My left shoulder has been slightly swollen for a week now. At first, I thought it would get better in a few days, but applying medicated patches and ointments hasn't helped, and it has also cause...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Based on your symptoms, there is a higher likelihood of left shoulder tendonitis. However, if there is a lump in your neck, it is still recommended that you visit an orthopedic clinic to rule out lymphadenopathy. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Left Shoulder and Neck Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Sudden Lower Back Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Sudden lower back pain? Hello, doctor! I woke up on the morning of July 9th and suddenly felt lower back pain. Whenever I sit for a long time and then try to stand up, the pain is so intense that I can hardly get up. It takes about 3 to 5 minutes for the pain to subside enough fo...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Acute low back pain is usually caused by muscle strains or improper posture, requiring rest and medication for treatment. If it has not fully healed, there is a possibility of recurring pain, and it may be necessary to consult a physician for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Lower Back Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Compression Fractures: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Spinal compression fracture caused by a car accident? Two months after the accident, I sustained a compression fracture of the 11th thoracic vertebra (shaped like a horizontally lying trapezoid), resulting in a curvature of the spine similar to scoliosis. However, there is no ner...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. By that time, the bone may have already healed, resulting in a less effective outcome. 2. The surgery will make it straighter to some extent. 3. Both options carry similar risks. 4. Yes.[Read More] Understanding Compression Fractures: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Military Concerns
Scoliosis Hello, doctor. I am a college student who is about to enlist in the military, born in 1994, so I only have four months left. I previously had an orthopedic examination that revealed I have scoliosis, but I didn't ask about the degree of curvature. Later, during my ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, scoliosis generally does not affect mobility. The regulations for military service are also quite strict. If you are concerned and would like to have another examination, you can visit an orthopedic clinic for an X-ray examination. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Military Concerns
Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Scoliosis of 8 degrees? Hello, doctor! I have an 8-degree scoliosis. Is that normal? My growth plates have already closed, so will the degree of scoliosis increase? Can I use a pull-up bar to straighten my spine? I am 18 years and 2 months old. Thank you for your response!
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The growth plates have closed with an 8-degree scoliosis, so the chance of worsening is low. Performing pull-ups for correction is unlikely to be effective. If there are no symptoms, monitoring is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Left Rib Pain and Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
Intermittent pain in the left rib cage and difficulty breathing? Hello Doctor, I have had a mild scoliosis issue since elementary school. In college, I started experiencing intermittent pain in my left rib, especially noticeable when I inhale, which leads to difficulty breathing....
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
If the chest X-ray shows no abnormalities in the lungs or bones, there should be no major concerns. The cause may be due to poor posture, improper exertion, or pressure from side sleeping. It is recommended to continue monitoring and have regular outpatient follow-ups. Wishing yo...[Read More] Left Rib Pain and Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
Correcting 8-Degree Scoliosis: Can Treatment Increase Height?
Scoliosis correction Scoliosis of 8 degrees! How can it be corrected? Will height increase after correction? Please answer me, doctor! Thank you!
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Correction is usually required when the angle exceeds 20 degrees.[Read More] Correcting 8-Degree Scoliosis: Can Treatment Increase Height?
Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Will It Progress After Growth Plate Closure?
Scoliosis of 8 degrees! Hello, doctor! I have a question! I am 18 years and 2 months old, and I have an 8-degree scoliosis. My growth plates have closed. Will the degree of my scoliosis increase? Can hanging from a pull-up bar help straighten my spine? Thank you for your response...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
A curvature of 8 degrees is considered very mild and typically does not progress; it cannot be straightened.[Read More] Understanding 8-Degree Scoliosis: Will It Progress After Growth Plate Closure?