Impact of Surgery on Osteoporosis: Concerns and Considerations
Surgical Impact Dear Director, I previously underwent an ultrasound bone density test, which indicated that I have osteoporosis. You suggested that I get a more accurate measurement of my hip joint or spine through a full-body lying down scan. Additionally, I have a question reg...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If the bone is too osteoporotic, the screws may not be able to secure properly during surgery. The physician should assess the condition, and if the bone is too fragile, it may not be suitable for this method. There are also other surgical options available to address the issue.[Read More] Impact of Surgery on Osteoporosis: Concerns and Considerations
Severe Lower Back Pain After Pregnancy: Seeking Safe Diagnosis Options
Severe lower back pain? Hello, Doctor: I gave birth last year, and I occasionally experience mild lower back discomfort. On the afternoon of August 10th, I felt a bit of soreness in my lower back, which I didn't think much of, but it gradually worsened into severe pain. I ha...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, it is recommended that you first visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for an evaluation by a physician to determine if an X-ray examination is necessary.[Read More] Severe Lower Back Pain After Pregnancy: Seeking Safe Diagnosis Options
Understanding Neck and Back Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Long-Term Solutions
Neck, shoulder, and back pain with stiffness in the lower back? Hello, Doctor! Recently, I visited a local hospital due to neck, shoulder, back, and lower back pain and stiffness, which restricted my upper body movement and required me to move slowly. The hospital performed X-ray...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello: In response to your inquiry, the presence of bone spurs or calcification in the spine is quite common. This is essentially a result of spinal aging or changes following past injuries. The vast majority of bone spurs do not affect daily life (meaning there are no symptoms o...[Read More] Understanding Neck and Back Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Long-Term Solutions
Understanding Cervical and Spinal Bone Spurs: Treatment Options Beyond Pain Relief
Cervical osteophytes and spinal osteophytes with calcification? Hello, Doctor! Recently, I visited a local hospital due to pain and stiffness in my neck, shoulders, back, and lower back, which restricted my upper body movement and required me to move slowly. The hospital performe...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Shoulder, neck, and back pain is often related to poor posture or prolonged sitting, which are the main causes. Bone spurs are commonly found on the spine, and if they are not causing symptoms, they can be ignored. Medication can be effective, but it is not necessary to take it l...[Read More] Understanding Cervical and Spinal Bone Spurs: Treatment Options Beyond Pain Relief
Understanding Bone Density Tests: Safety and Considerations for Women
Testing Inquiry Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you some questions. Is the bone density measurement device used in general hospitals a type of X-ray? Will full-body exposure have any effects? Since I have never been pregnant or given birth, would you still recommend having the ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is a type of X-ray that involves a very low radiation dose. If it is not performed during pregnancy, it generally does not have a significant impact. Typically, it is done on the lumbar spine or hip joints, and there is usually no need to wait to have it done later.[Read More] Understanding Bone Density Tests: Safety and Considerations for Women
Understanding Bone Density -2.5: Concerns and Calcium Solutions for Young Women
Bone mineral density -2.5 Hello Doctor: I am 25 years old, female, and I usually enjoy exercising and often eat fruits and vegetables. I wonder if it’s because I get less sun exposure... Yesterday, my bone density test result was -2.5, which is close to the threshold for osteopor...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
May I ask which type of machine was used for your examination? Generally, a DEXA scan, specifically a whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan, is more accurate than an ultrasound. Was the examination performed on the spine or the hip? If the results are indeed accu...[Read More] Understanding Bone Density -2.5: Concerns and Calcium Solutions for Young Women
Can Congenital Joint Stiffness Be Treated at Age 13? Insights and Home Exercises
Congenital Joint Stiffness Syndrome Doctor, excuse me, may I ask if it is still possible to treat congenital joint stiffness syndrome at the age of 13? If treatment starts now, to what extent can recovery be expected? (The knee can bend to about 60 degrees.) Are there any exercis...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, In response to your inquiry, arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is a rare congenital disorder that affects multiple joints and is associated with symptoms such as muscle weakness and muscle fibrosis. The extent of involvement can vary among patients; some may only have a...[Read More] Can Congenital Joint Stiffness Be Treated at Age 13? Insights and Home Exercises
Which Orthopedic Subspecialty to Consult for Uneven Shoulders in Teens?
One shoulder is higher than the other? For a middle school student with uneven shoulders, which orthopedic subspecialty should they see?
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, having one shoulder higher than the other is usually caused by scoliosis. You may want to schedule an appointment with a spine specialist. Thank you![Read More] Which Orthopedic Subspecialty to Consult for Uneven Shoulders in Teens?
Choosing Between General and Regional Anesthesia for Foot Surgery
Choice of Anesthesia for Surgery Dear Director, I am scheduled for surgery (bunionectomy) and would like to inquire whether general anesthesia or regional anesthesia is better. If I choose general anesthesia, will intubation be necessary, and is there any risk involved? Additio...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Generally, anesthesia is very safe, whether it is general or regional anesthesia. The decision is made by the anesthesiologist, and there is no risk of lower body paralysis.[Read More] Choosing Between General and Regional Anesthesia for Foot Surgery
How to Self-Check for Leg Length Discrepancy and Treatment Options
How to detect leg length discrepancy? Hello, how can I self-assess whether I have leg length discrepancy? If I do have a leg length discrepancy, what are the methods for correction and treatment? I would appreciate Dr. Chen taking the time to respond. Thank you!
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello: In response to your inquiry regarding the measurement of leg length discrepancy, there are generally two main categories: manual measurement and imaging measurement. Manual measurement is convenient and quick but may lead to errors, while imaging measurement is more accura...[Read More] How to Self-Check for Leg Length Discrepancy and Treatment Options
Understanding Risks and Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the risks associated with minimally invasive surgery on the fifth lumbar vertebra. What does minimally invasive surgery involve? My brother had a fall in the military and sustained a compression fracture of the tw...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: Minimally invasive procedures are not inherently related to surgical risks; the key factor is the type of surgery being performed, which is what truly affects the surgical risk. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Risks and Benefits of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Understanding Spine Issues: Causes of Back Pain from Poor Posture
Spinal issues? Hello, I have been experiencing back pain for about a month now. There is a specific vertebra that feels sharp pain when touched and has a noticeable inward curve. I have been carrying a small baby, and I'm unsure if this is due to poor posture while holding t...
Dr. Li Wenlin Reply:
Hello, In response to your inquiry, you mentioned experiencing lower back pain. There are many potential causes for lower back pain, including myofascial pain syndrome, ligament inflammation, spondylolisthesis, tumors, and even conditions like shingles. Therefore, it is advisab...[Read More] Understanding Spine Issues: Causes of Back Pain from Poor Posture
Understanding the Sensation of Water Droplets on Legs: A Spine Connection?
There is a sensation of water dripping in the lower extremities? Hello, Doctor: Recently, I often feel drops of water on my legs while walking, but there are actually none. Could this be related to my spinal nerves? Please also consider the following related conditions: 1. During...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Abnormal sensations in the lower limbs may be related to nerve conduction issues; however, if there is pain, the association with spinal nerves increases. 1. Shortened calf tendons may refer to a shortened Achilles tendon (tendo calcaneus), which can make squatting more difficult...[Read More] Understanding the Sensation of Water Droplets on Legs: A Spine Connection?
Understanding Scoliosis Measurement for Military Service Exemptions in Taiwan
Scoliosis I would like to ask how the angle of scoliosis is calculated for military service. It is stated that an angle of 25 degrees constitutes an exemption from service, and the Cobb method is used for measurement. I went to see a doctor, and he mentioned a right dorsal hump f...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: The Cobb angle is the angle of curvature in the anteroposterior direction of the spine. There may be some degree of error, so if there are any doubts, it is recommended to retest. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Scoliosis Measurement for Military Service Exemptions in Taiwan
Can Dislocated Coccyx Be Repositioned? Treatment Options Explained
Coccygeal dislocation/subluxation/bruising? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask if a dislocated coccyx/spine can be returned to its original position, and how should it be managed? About a month ago, a little boy in my class accidentally kicked a little girl who was washing her ha...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: In most cases, coccygeal injuries do not require treatment, except for acute dislocations, which are rare. It is recommended to consult a physician to confirm the condition before resuming activities. Thank you.[Read More] Can Dislocated Coccyx Be Repositioned? Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Calf Cramps: Causes and Solutions for Pain Relief
Calf cramp Hello Dr. Chang: My mother (58 years old) has been experiencing twitching in the outer side of her calves while sleeping for a long time, which causes her pain and prevents her from sleeping. Recently, she has also been feeling soreness and weakness in the outer side o...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
Hello: It is still possible that this is related to spinal degeneration or electrolyte imbalance, and it may also be associated with the common peroneal nerve. It is recommended to seek assistance from a neurologist first. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Calf Cramps: Causes and Solutions for Pain Relief
Understanding Lower Back Pain in Moms: Causes and Treatment Options
Lower back pain in mothers? Hello Doctor, First of all, thank you for your kind response to my previous inquiry about gluteal muscle spasms. I really appreciate your help! I have gone for a consultation, and I have arranged for an ultrasound examination. There is a possibility ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You can go to the hospital and ask a physician to arrange a general X-ray examination. If further evaluation is necessary, such as an MRI, it can be scheduled accordingly. Most cases of lower back pain in adults are caused by poor posture or overuse, and rest or medication can im...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain in Moms: Causes and Treatment Options
Managing Chronic Back Pain from Thoracolumbar Degeneration: Medication Insights
Thoracolumbar junction 3 Degenerative changes in the thoracolumbar spine can lead to chronic back pain. However, medications such as Tofisopam, analgesics, and muscle relaxants are typically used for long-term management. These medications primarily help alleviate symptoms rather...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
Medications cannot reverse degeneration; whether or not to take medication should be determined by a physician's assessment. Thank you![Read More] Managing Chronic Back Pain from Thoracolumbar Degeneration: Medication Insights
Essential Exercises for Strengthening and Relaxing Spinal Muscles
Bone issues? The doctor mentioned that to prevent degeneration of the thoracic and lumbar spine, it is important to focus on improving posture and performing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the spine, as well as relaxation exercises. What are the exercises for strength...
Dr. Zhang Jiahao Reply:
It is recommended to visit the rehabilitation department for professional rehabilitation guidance![Read More] Essential Exercises for Strengthening and Relaxing Spinal Muscles
Understanding Spinal Degeneration at 24: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Bone issues Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing persistent discomfort in my lower back and upper back, including soreness, tightness, and a feeling of pressure. After consulting a neurologist and undergoing X-rays, the doctor diagnosed me with degeneration of the thoracolumba...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello: If you are of an age where you experience chronic back pain, there are many potential causes that need to be differentiated through diagnosis. Since you have already seen a physician and undergone examinations, you should follow the medical advice and take the prescribed m...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Degeneration at 24: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention