Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Ankylosing spondylitis Hello Dr. Wang: Previously, I felt something unusual in my right foot, and after seeing a traditional Chinese medicine doctor (later a Western doctor diagnosed it as flat feet), the doctor suggested I check for ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask, w...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms typically include recurrent back pain, a family history, and a higher prevalence in males, as it is an autoimmune disease. X-rays may show inflammation of the sacroiliac joints and spinal joints. A blood test for HLA-B27 may be positive. Diagnosis ...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Severity, and Treatment Options
Scoliosis Hello Doctor: I have scoliosis, and I have noticeable swelling and pain on the right side of my back. Is this serious? Which direction is my scoliosis bending?
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is bent to the right side; you can visit a hospital to see a doctor and get an X-ray to understand it better.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Severity, and Treatment Options
Understanding Scoliosis: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Options
Issues related to axial deviation? Hello, I would like to ask about issues related to scoliosis. I heard that if a male has a scoliosis greater than 15 degrees, he is exempt from military service (although this has been abolished). I would like to know what problems and consequen...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Most cases of scoliosis have an unknown cause. In adults, if the curvature is between 15-35 degrees, only symptomatic treatment is necessary. If the curvature exceeds 35-40 degrees, surgery may be required. There is no definitive treatment that can "cure" scoliosis; it ...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Options
Managing Foot Pain and Bunions: Insights on Short Leg Syndrome and Bone Spurs
Leg length discrepancy and hallux valgus? I have bone spurs in my lower back, and when I walk in shoes, I often get blisters and skin breakdown on the arches of both feet and the area below the big toes. During rehabilitation, I consulted a physician who mentioned that due to agi...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Netizen: The presence of bone spurs in the lumbar region is a manifestation of degeneration and is not likely to cause scoliosis. However, it is important to pay attention to the use, protection, and maintenance of the lower back to prevent further degeneration and the onset...[Read More] Managing Foot Pain and Bunions: Insights on Short Leg Syndrome and Bone Spurs
Understanding Posture Scoliosis in Children: Diagnosis and Concerns
Scoliosis Hello Dr. Li, I would like to ask you about my six-year-old child's abdominal X-ray report, which indicates "posture scoliosis of the lumbar spine." However, after consulting with a pediatric orthopedic specialist who reviewed the same X-ray, the doctor...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, when a radiologist interprets a standard X-ray, they are obligated to mention any minor findings. Additionally, during an abdominal X-ray, the patient is lying down, and if they are not positioned perfectly, it can make the lumbar spine appear...[Read More] Understanding Posture Scoliosis in Children: Diagnosis and Concerns
Can Yoga Help Correct Lumbar Scoliosis? Expert Insights
Lumbar scoliosis Hello Doctor: Due to weight training during my childhood, I have developed lumbar scoliosis. I would like to know if practicing yoga is suitable for correcting lumbar scoliosis. Will it be beneficial for my condition? Thank you!
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Eric: To correct lumbar scoliosis, it is essential to first determine the degree of the curvature. Practicing yoga is not related to correcting spinal scoliosis, but it may help alleviate lower back pain. I recommend visiting an orthopedic clinic for a full spine X-ray to confirm...[Read More] Can Yoga Help Correct Lumbar Scoliosis? Expert Insights
Understanding Scoliosis: Causes and Treatment Options for Thoracic Curvature
Thoracic scoliosis Causes and Treatment Methods of Thoracic Scoliosis
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Scoliosis has mostly unknown causes. Depending on the patient's age and the severity of the curvature, treatment options can range from observation and the use of corrective braces to surgical intervention. It is recommended to first visit an orthopedic clinic for a full spi...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Causes and Treatment Options for Thoracic Curvature
Understanding Coccyx Pain and Its Impact on Spinal Health
Coccyx The bone in the middle of the buttocks is indeed the coccyx. It is prominent and can be easily felt when squatting. If thoracic scoliosis is left untreated, it can lead to various complications. This condition involves an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can ...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
The length of the coccyx generally measures within 2 centimeters and rarely protrudes. Due to evolution, the coccyx has lost its original function; however, some individuals still possess a longer coccyx. The treatment for thoracic scoliosis depends on the degree of curvature and...[Read More] Understanding Coccyx Pain and Its Impact on Spinal Health
Understanding Lower Back Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Posture Issues
Recently, I've been experiencing some numbness in my lower back? Due to long hours of standing at work, I have recently developed some issues, specifically numbness in my lower back and a bit in the left side of my buttocks (only that specific spot is numb, not the entire ar...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If the spine is deformed, such as in cases of scoliosis or kyphosis, it can increase the load on the back muscles, making them more susceptible to soreness. Overworking can also lead to pain. Poor posture can cause discomfort as well; if there is a discrepancy in leg length, it m...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Posture Issues
Understanding Scoliosis: When Does It Affect Military Service Eligibility?
Thoracic scoliosis Hello, Deputy Director. May I ask what degree of thoracic scoliosis qualifies for alternative military service? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
In cases where there is a significant deformity and functional impairment at an angle of approximately 30 degrees or more.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: When Does It Affect Military Service Eligibility?
Managing Limb Length Discrepancy and Multiple Osteochondromas: Treatment Options
excuse me? I am 18 years old and have a leg length discrepancy of 4.6 centimeters, along with multiple osteochondromas. Since childhood, I have undergone surgeries for multiple osteochondromas on my hands, feet, knees, and shoulders. I have discovered that the leg length discrepa...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
In cases of limb length discrepancy, accurate measurement of lower limb length is necessary for diagnosis. If the difference is 4.5 centimeters or more, it may affect walking and could lead to mild disability. It is recommended to visit an orthopedic clinic for a thorough examina...[Read More] Managing Limb Length Discrepancy and Multiple Osteochondromas: Treatment Options
Is Having Uneven Shoulders Normal? Understanding Shoulder Pain and Concerns
I have uneven shoulders; is this normal? I noticed in the mirror over the past few days that I have uneven shoulders! It's not very obvious, but it's noticeable. I asked a classmate if I have uneven shoulders, and he confirmed that I do. Is this normal? My left shoulder...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello: You can first discuss your concerns with your family medicine physician, who can then decide whether to refer you to a specific subspecialty for further evaluation. Generally speaking, uneven shoulder height is mostly caused by posture, with only a small percentage related...[Read More] Is Having Uneven Shoulders Normal? Understanding Shoulder Pain and Concerns
Understanding Calf Cramps: Sciatica or Tendonitis?
Calf cramps while walking? Hello Doctor, In early April of this year, I experienced cramps in my left calf at night. I didn't take any action at that time, and after resting for a night, it seemed to improve. However, around April 12, I felt some numbness in the sole of my...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Based on your description, it is indeed possible that the herniated disc is causing sciatica and calf tendinitis. However, both conditions should initially be treated conservatively with medication and rehabilitation. If symptoms improve, that would be sufficient; however, if the...[Read More] Understanding Calf Cramps: Sciatica or Tendonitis?
Understanding Scoliosis and Military Service Eligibility in Taiwan
Scoliosis ~ Military Service Issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about military service issues related to scoliosis. During my military physical examination, the orthopedic department requested a re-evaluation. After my second re-evaluation, I inquired and found out tha...
Dr. Chen Xingyuan Reply:
Dear Netizen: According to the "Standards for Classification of Physical Condition" (Republic of China, No. 0960000797 issued by the Ministry of National Defense on December 31, and No. 0960830450 issued by the Ministry of the Interior), a spinal curvature of 24 degrees...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis and Military Service Eligibility in Taiwan
Understanding Scoliosis in Children: Surgery Necessity and Treatment Options
Scoliosis My precious daughter is 5 years old and has congenital scoliosis, which has been assessed at 46 degrees by Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Does the director necessarily need to perform surgery? What are the potential complications? Additionally, have you heard of somethin...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Whether surgery is needed depends on the degree of curvature and deformity. Additionally, the rate of progression is also a factor. Bracing serves a therapeutic purpose for scoliosis; it is typically used to prevent rapid deterioration, but it cannot revert an already curved spin...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis in Children: Surgery Necessity and Treatment Options
Understanding Scoliosis: Health Impacts and Treatment Options
Scoliosis Dear Dr. Wang, I recently underwent a health check-up, which included a chest X-ray. The results revealed that I have scoliosis. Since completing my postpartum recovery after giving birth to my second child last November, I have frequently experienced discomfort and so...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Xiao Fen: The impact of scoliosis depends on the degree of curvature. A larger angle may lead to noticeable deformities in the back during childhood. It is recommended to first visit an orthopedic clinic for a full spine X-ray to determine the angle. Only then can further recomme...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Health Impacts and Treatment Options
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
Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Scoliosis Hello, I have been experiencing soreness on the left side of my back for the past few days. I visited an orthopedic doctor who noticed a difference in the height of my shoulders and suspected scoliosis. I underwent imaging tests, and the doctor mentioned that the curvat...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions: 1. Scoliosis does not cause shoulder pain or tightness near the heart. Theoretically, a mild degree of scoliosis will only result in uneven shoulder heights or asymmetry in the waist when bending, without causing pain symptoms. 2. Spondyl...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns Explained
Spine Hello, I have been experiencing soreness on the left side of my back for the past few days. I visited an orthopedic doctor who noticed that my shoulders are uneven and suspected that I might have scoliosis. I underwent imaging tests, and the doctor mentioned that the curvat...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is often of unknown origin and is more likely to worsen during the growth years. After the age of sixteen, cases of worsening are less common. Mild curves (less than 25 degrees) typically do not require concern, and symptoms are usually not signifi...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns Explained
Understanding Scoliosis: Causes, Treatment Options, and Risks
Orthopedic issues 1. What are the causes of scoliosis? Is rehabilitation therapy the primary treatment? Under what circumstances is surgery necessary? Is there any risk involved? 2. If an X-ray shows a curvature of the spine, does that automatically indicate scoliosis, or could...
Dr. Wang Zikang Reply:
Most cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis are of unknown origin. If the curvature is less than 45 degrees, surgery is not necessary. For curvatures above 25 degrees during the growth period (under 16 years of age), a brace is required until the age of 16. Surgical interventio...[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis: Causes, Treatment Options, and Risks