Understanding Prolonged Muscle Pain After Strenuous Activity: A Guide
Lower back pain issues? Doctor, a while ago, when I sat up from bed, I suddenly felt abnormal pain in the muscles on both sides of my lumbar spine. The pain was so severe that I couldn't stand up straight and had to walk bent at a 90-degree angle. The day before, I had gone ...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
Low back pain is the most common condition seen in orthopedic clinics, and it is mostly caused by improper use. However, it typically does not last longer than four weeks. If symptoms persist for an extended period, or if there are complications such as numbness or pain in the lo...[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Muscle Pain After Strenuous Activity: A Guide
Understanding Bone Spurs in the Cervical Spine: Causes and Treatment Options
Bone spur Hello, Doctor Shi: May I ask what causes bone spurs to develop within the cervical vertebrae and the surrounding soft tissue in my husband? Can medication treat this condition, or is surgery necessary? Thank you for your assistance, Doctor Shi.
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Bone spurs are often a manifestation of osteoarthritis. The term "degeneration" refers to the wear and tear of joints or bones over time. The worn cartilage cannot regenerate into new, normal cartilage; instead, the bone develops additional bony growths as compensation....[Read More] Understanding Bone Spurs in the Cervical Spine: Causes and Treatment Options
Does Ankle Injury Affect Your Height? Insights from an Orthopedic Expert
Height issues Hello, Doctor Shi: I remember when I was a child, I twisted my ankle while running, which caused a slight protrusion in the area of the left talus. Will this affect my height?
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If the growth plates in the ankle are not injured, they will not affect height. The majority of height growth occurs at the growth plates near the knee joint, while the ends of the thigh and calf also contribute to height. The spine is similarly involved. Therefore, there is no n...[Read More] Does Ankle Injury Affect Your Height? Insights from an Orthopedic Expert
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 and Managing Pediatric Cervical Dislocation: Key Insights for Parents
Cervical spine dislocation in children My daughter experienced two instances of cervical spine misalignment between the ages of 7 and 9, both occurring after waking up, and she had been completely normal in the days leading up to these events. The cause is unclear. Could you plea...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Cervical vertebra displacement is not commonly seen in children; it may be a phenomenon where the neck appears tilted to one side upon waking, commonly referred to as torticollis. It may be necessary to consult a pediatric neurologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding and Managing Pediatric Cervical Dislocation: Key Insights for Parents
Understanding Growth Plate Closure: Spine vs. Feet in Adolescents
Could you please provide more context or specify what information you are seeking about the spinal growth plates? The closure of the vertebral growth plates typically occurs around the ages of 16 to 18 in females and 18 to 21 in males. In general, the growth plates in the spine t...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The exact timing of the closure of the vertebral growth plates is not well-documented; however, it can be estimated based on the closure of the iliac crest growth plates in the pelvis, which typically occurs after the age of sixteen. Nonetheless, literature has reported that afte...[Read More] Understanding Growth Plate Closure: Spine vs. Feet in Adolescents
Confused About My Neck and Shoulder Pain: Seeking Orthopedic Advice
I'm at a loss for words... Please, I'm begging you, doctor? Today, I visited Changhua Show Chwan Hospital to see an orthopedic specialist. The X-ray results showed that my cervical spine is straight. Previously, I went to Taichung Veterans General Hospital for the same ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You may consider choosing a hospital you trust for treatment, as shoulder joint issues can typically be resolved. The straightening of the cervical spine may be due to muscle stiffness, and medication or rehabilitation therapy can also be effective.[Read More] Confused About My Neck and Shoulder Pain: Seeking Orthopedic Advice
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
Understanding Back Pain: Why Your Mattress Matters
Lumbar pain? Hello doctor, when I sleep on a spring mattress, I experience pain in the area below my thoracic spine and above my lumbar spine. I feel pain when I stretch my body, but after a few hours, the pain disappears. However, if I sleep on a wooden bed, I do not experience ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Based on your symptoms, it appears to be a soft tissue issue, which tends to improve after getting out of bed. The problem should not be significant. I recommend switching to a mattress with better support, which should help improve your condition. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: Why Your Mattress Matters
Cold Weather Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Aftermath of Treatment?
Spine Cold weather can cause discomfort in the lower back and spine, making it difficult to walk upright and resulting in weakness in the legs. I had a spinal tap when I was younger. Could this be a long-term effect? Which specialist should I see? Thank you.
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
1. Performing a lumbar puncture will not cause spinal stenosis or nerve compression. 2. Back pain and sciatica can lead to an inability to walk upright, causing leg pain, and prolonged nerve compression in the lumbar region can result in weakness in the legs. Therefore, it is rec...[Read More] Cold Weather Back Pain: Is It a Spine Issue or Aftermath of Treatment?
Understanding Left Cervical Spine Issues: Muscle or Vascular Problems?
Left cervical vertebrae Hello, I have been experiencing a pulsating sensation on the left side of my neck for 10 years. The involuntary twitching occurs at points that can be 3 to 7 cm apart, from near the earlobe to the shoulder. Could you please tell me if this issue is related...
Dr. Shi Qiming Reply:
If the muscle exhibits prolonged involuntary twitching contractions, it is recommended to undergo an electromyography (EMG) examination by a neurologist to assess the condition of the muscle. You may seek treatment at our hospital. This response is provided on behalf of Dr. Wang ...[Read More] Understanding Left Cervical Spine Issues: Muscle or Vascular Problems?
Understanding Nerve Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment for Lower Back Issues
Examination of Lumbar Nerves Dear Dr. Wang, I frequently used the computer for long hours about six months ago. Before the Lunar New Year, I noticed abnormal pain in the joints of my big toes; afterward, it felt like my feet were being shocked while walking. Whenever I experienc...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Mr. Zhang: Based on your symptoms and medical history, it does not appear to be typical sciatica. Gout should also improve and not persist continuously. As for the possibility of muscle compression in the buttocks affecting the nerve, that is less likely. I'm not sure how yo...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment for Lower Back Issues
Understanding Muscle Strain and Pain in the Legs: Causes and Solutions
Regarding leg pain, tightness, and weakness..? I have a question regarding muscle fiber tears in the calves and thighs. I work in the electronics industry, where I have to stand and walk briskly all day, and sometimes even run to meet deadlines. I typically work over eight hours ...
Dr. Lin Yijun Reply:
Hello Ah Hao: Your excessive muscle use, especially engaging in intense activities without proper warm-up, can often lead to muscle strains, and this reasoning is reasonable. Additionally, since you have consulted with orthopedics, rheumatology, and neurology, and have undergone ...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Strain and Pain in the Legs: Causes and Solutions
Is Bone Cement Injection Effective for Chronic Spine Pain Relief?
Spinal bone cement Having undergone spinal fusion surgery, I have been experiencing long-term pain issues. The doctor has only prescribed pain relief and vitamin B complex. One doctor suggested the possibility of bone cement injection. Is this a viable option? Thank you for your ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
In this situation, bone cement may not be helpful. Bone cement is used for compressive vertebral fractures. You may need to consult a physician for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Is Bone Cement Injection Effective for Chronic Spine Pain Relief?
Understanding Knee Weakness: When to Seek Orthopedic Help
Knee weakness I am a taxi driver who underwent surgery ten years ago for a malignant spinal tumor, during which a vertebra was removed and replaced with a steel rod. My recovery has been good, and I can walk and run. However, in the past two to three months, I have found it diffi...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
There may be an issue with the spine; if there are bone spurs pressing on the nerves, it can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs, making it difficult to walk long distances, requiring frequent breaks. Additionally, there may be a problem with the knee joint; if there is...[Read More] Understanding Knee Weakness: When to Seek Orthopedic Help
Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
Herniated disc? Ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Wang, I apologize for the lengthy message... ^^" Last year during the Lunar New Year, I was squatting down while holding a child, and at that moment, I felt fine. However, later that night, I suddenly experienced severe lower...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Ms. Lin: Generally speaking, young women without a family history have a low chance of developing ankylosing spondylitis. It is mostly likely a problem with the muscles or soft tissues. If there are accompanying symptoms such as lower limb numbness or sciatica, those cannot be ru...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
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
Managing Spine Bone Spurs and Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Home Relief
Lumbar spine bone spurs and herniation? Hello Doctor, my mother has been diagnosed with bone spurs and a herniated disc in her lumbar spine, causing pain in her lower back and left leg, making it difficult for her to walk long distances or stand for extended periods. She has been...
Dr. Zhou Lizhi Reply:
Lumbar spinal stenosis is primarily caused by bone spurs or herniated discs that compress the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and an inability to stand for prolonged periods. Initially, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to alleviate symptoms; however, if these are ineffect...[Read More] Managing Spine Bone Spurs and Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Home Relief
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: 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