Understanding Sudden Lumbar Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Acute lumbar pain? Hello Doctor, a few days ago, due to my menstrual period, I experienced slight lower back pain. Additionally, I had to kneel all day for a family funeral, and that evening, I felt severe pain. The discomfort extended from my lumbar spine to my knees, and I also...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Muscle strains typically do not present with lower limb numbness or extend to the calf or sole of the foot, nor do they cause weakness in the calf or toes. Back injuries are often related to poor posture or repetitive movements. Initial treatment should focus on medication and re...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Lumbar Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Recovery from T12 Spine Injury After a Car Accident
Injury to the 12th vertebra of the spine after a car accident? Hello, doctor. I was in a car accident on October 2nd, resulting in a fracture of my T12 vertebra. I have been lying down for an extended period and required surgery, during which 8 steel screws were inserted. I need ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If there is no injury to the spinal nerves and the vertebrae are fractured, healing will occur. After surgery, there may be some soreness, which could lead to a slight hunching of the back. To promote normal bone growth after a fracture, it is important to supplement with calcium...[Read More] Understanding Recovery from T12 Spine Injury After a Car Accident
Can I Practice Judo with Scoliosis? Expert Advice on Spinal Health
Scoliosis Hello Dr. Wang, I have an S-shaped scoliosis with a thoracic curvature of 18 degrees and a lumbar curvature of 26 degrees (the lumbar spine has some rotation). I am considering taking the police examination, but since police training requires practicing judo, I am con...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: This will depend on whether you can pass the physical examination for the police academy. Such a spine is prone to injury from high-energy impacts. Thank you![Read More] Can I Practice Judo with Scoliosis? Expert Advice on Spinal Health
Neck Pain Leading to Facial Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Chronic cervical pain is causing my face to become increasingly asymmetrical? Hello, doctor. I am a freshman this year. Since last year, I have been experiencing discomfort on the right side of my cervical spine. I often feel pain, which worsens when pressure is applied. There is...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The facial asymmetry is not caused by cervical spine issues; it is important to check for facial nerve paralysis. Please see a neurologist for an examination as soon as possible. Thank you![Read More] Neck Pain Leading to Facial Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Lower back pain? Dear Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing lower back pain for some time, but over the past month, the pain has intensified. I feel soreness and discomfort in my entire lower back and pelvic area. Additionally, when I take a deep breath and engage my abdominal musc...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Please go to the outpatient clinic for a lumbar spine examination. 2. It is possible. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Understanding Spinal Alignment: Straight vs. S-Shaped Spine Issues
The spine is straight? Hello, doctor. My brother was in a car accident last Wednesday and went to Cheng Ching Hospital in Wuri for an X-ray. The doctor mentioned that his spine is straight, but it should be S-shaped, right? The doctor didn't elaborate much, so I would like t...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The lateral X-ray of the spine should not show an S-curve. A spine that is too straight on the lateral view may be due to muscle tightness after an injury or long-term poor posture. It is advisable to monitor this after recovery from the current injury. You may first consu...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Alignment: Straight vs. S-Shaped Spine Issues
Understanding Patellar Chondromalacia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Patellar chondromalacia Doctor, six months ago, without any trauma or exercise, I started experiencing pain in the upper sides of both knees, significant soreness in the outer sides of my calves, and aching in my ankles. The pain persists throughout the day, and my right foot fee...
Dr. Hong Ximing Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, the symptoms are quite evident, and with the presence of scoliosis, the imbalance in body weight will further exacerbate the wear on the patella. Arthroscopic lavage treatment could be considered, followed by rehabilitation. The specific situat...[Read More] Understanding Patellar Chondromalacia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Neck and Back Sounds: Are They Signs of Aging?
Hello, doctor? Hello, Doctor. I'm not sure why, but recently the bones in my cervical spine (specifically the first joint that can be seen when I slightly lower my head) have been making sounds. I often find myself unconsciously slouching, and whenever I become aware of it, ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
This may be the sound of bones and ligaments or nearby synovial tissue rubbing against each other, which is not related to pain. If you are very concerned, you can get an X-ray to check for any other issues.[Read More] Understanding Neck and Back Sounds: Are They Signs of Aging?
Understanding Spinal Numbness After Weight Training: When to Seek Help
Experiencing spinal numbness the day after weight training? Hello Doctor, during my high school entrance physical examination, I was found to have mild scoliosis (15-20 degrees). I often experience back pain and had difficulty standing up straight for two weeks after running a ha...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: If there is only numbness in the back spine, it should not be a major concern. However, if there is treatment extending to other areas such as the lower limbs, further follow-up examinations are necessary. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Spinal Numbness After Weight Training: When to Seek Help
Is It Normal to Feel a Slightly Protruding Spine?
Vertebral protrusion Is it normal to feel a slight protrusion of the vertebrae in my back?
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: If there are no symptoms, observation is usually sufficient. Thank you![Read More] Is It Normal to Feel a Slightly Protruding Spine?
Understanding Foot Numbness and Tingling: Causes and Next Steps
Numbness and tingling in the soles of the feet? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing numbness and tingling in the soles of both feet for almost two months. It feels fine when lying down or standing, but mainly when sitting, I experience this numbness and tingling. I have had X-...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Symptoms of nerve compression are mostly exacerbated by prolonged standing and walking. If sitting for long periods, one should pay attention to posture and circulation issues. Prolonged standing and walking can also lead to pain, and it is important to consider the possib...[Read More] Understanding Foot Numbness and Tingling: Causes and Next Steps
Post-Discectomy Care: Recovery Tips and Exercises for Spine Health
Lumbar disc herniation surgery After undergoing surgery for a herniated disc, it is important to pay attention to the following aspects during recovery: 1. **Rest and Activity Modification**: Initially, you should rest and avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting. Gradual...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Avoid heavy lifting. Recovery after a simple discectomy for decompression typically requires at least three months. It is recommended to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. Thank you![Read More] Post-Discectomy Care: Recovery Tips and Exercises for Spine Health
Understanding Shoulder Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Numbness in the posterior shoulder? During my middle school years, I often stayed up late playing on the computer, and I frequently experienced a sharp pain in my right shoulder. I didn't pay much attention to it at the time, but gradually, the skin on my right shoulder near...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to promptly visit a neurosurgeon for an examination of the cervical spine and brain tissue for any issues. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Shoulder Numbness: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Choosing the Right Specialist for Severe Spine Issues in Taipei
Spinal issues? Hello Dr. Wang: My father has worn out the cartilage in his lumbar vertebrae L2, L3, L4, and L5. The intervertebral discs are protruding and pressing on the nerves, causing bone spurs. He is currently experiencing severe back pain and has difficulty standing, and t...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: In cases of degenerative arthritis of the spine with associated conditions, if conservative treatment (medication and rehabilitation) is ineffective, and MRI shows spinal compression, surgical decompression is necessary to restore neurological function and reduce pain. In ...[Read More] Choosing the Right Specialist for Severe Spine Issues in Taipei
Understanding Osteoporosis X-Ray Checks: Key Areas and Treatment Options
Bone density test How many points should be examined in an X-ray for osteoporosis to be sufficient? Previously, someone went to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and had their wrist and foot examined, but when I had it done at Taipei Medical University two years ago, only the hip and ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Bone density testing typically measures the lumbar spine and hip. A T-score of -1.8 indicates osteopenia, which is not yet at the level of osteoporosis, and the risk of fractures is relatively low. Generally, increasing physical activity and supplementing with calcium and vitamin...[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis X-Ray Checks: Key Areas and Treatment Options
Nutrition Tips for Pre and Post Spine Surgery Recovery
Spinal surgery, postoperative rehabilitation? Hello Doctor, my friend (female, 34 years old) is experiencing severe degeneration of the fourth and fifth vertebrae and will need surgery soon. I would like to ask what kind of nutrition she can take before and after the surgery to a...
Dr. Huang Minxu Reply:
Hello: It is important to maintain a normal and balanced diet. Incorporate vegetables and fruits to facilitate smooth bowel movements. Avoid tobacco and alcohol. For specific nutritional intake to assist with surgery and subsequent recovery, you can consult a professional nutriti...[Read More] Nutrition Tips for Pre and Post Spine Surgery Recovery
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Pain in the buttocks? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling soreness on both sides of my lower back when I wake up in the morning. Additionally, since Wednesday, I've been experiencing a sensation in my right buttock that feels like the bone is displaced, moving to...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It could be an issue with the hip joint or lumbar spine; you can schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist to have it checked.[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Muscle and Joint Stiffness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Muscle and joint stiffness and pain? Hello Dr. Wang: I am asking on behalf of my mother (54 years old). Recently, she has been experiencing stiffness in her muscles and joints. The symptoms include difficulty standing for even a short period, and when she wants to change position...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Based on your mother's symptoms, they are likely related to joint degeneration. Osteoarthritis can cause stiffness, pain, and the need for warming up. Please visit an orthopedic department for further examination. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Muscle and Joint Stiffness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Your Symptoms: Neck and Back Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
What symptoms should I have? Hello Dr. Wang, I have been experiencing pain in my neck and lower back for over a month. Today, I went to a larger clinic for an X-ray, and they told me that I have small bone spurs and that the bones connecting to my lower back have degenerated and ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The presence of bone spurs indicates that degenerative arthritis of the spine is already present. It is important to be cautious with weight-bearing activities, bending, and posture. Using analgesics can only provide temporary relief from discomfort and is not a long-term ...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Neck and Back Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
Understanding Tailbone Fractures: Is Your Leg Pain Related?
Spinal fracture? About a year and a half ago, I fell and ended up with a crack in my tailbone. The doctor said it would heal on its own, and I haven't had any follow-up examinations since then. Recently, I've been experiencing occasional soreness in both legs, particula...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: A coccygeal fracture should not be related to compression of the spinal nerves; however, if there is pain or numbness, it is advisable to return to the clinic to check if it is related to spinal nerve compression. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Tailbone Fractures: Is Your Leg Pain Related?