Is Spine Surgery Safe for Dialysis Patients? Key Considerations
Is it suitable for dialysis patients to undergo spinal surgery? Doctor, my mother is currently undergoing dialysis and is experiencing significant body pain due to a misalignment of her spine. The physician has determined that her spinal vertebrae are too far apart, and given her...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello Ting: Dialysis patients can undergo spinal surgery, but the risks are relatively higher compared to the general population. In addition to dialysis, it is important to monitor for hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and lung and liver diseases. The more organs that are a...[Read More] Is Spine Surgery Safe for Dialysis Patients? Key Considerations
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and Sciatica in Elderly Patients
Peripheral neuropathy, sciatica? Doctor, my father is in his eighties and has prostate cancer. He experiences pain on both sides of his buttocks, and his legs feel sore and numb, making it difficult for him to walk. He also has urinary and fecal incontinence. He has seen a neurol...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
As people age, it is common for the spine to undergo degenerative changes. Some individuals may develop spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis, which can lead to mobility issues (intermittent claudication) or bowel and bladder incontinence. It is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon...[Read More] Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and Sciatica in Elderly Patients
Understanding Post-Surgery Complications: Broken Screws in Spinal Fusion
Postoperative screw fracture after spinal spondylolisthesis surgery? Hello, doctor. I previously underwent surgery for spondylolisthesis, during which four steel screws were inserted for stabilization. Post-surgery, everything seemed normal until six months later when an X-ray re...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. No matter how strong the bone screws are, they will eventually break if the bone does not heal. 2. Whether it helps or not depends on the severity of your symptoms; if the symptoms are unbearable, a second surgery may be necessary. 3. The term "not touching nearby ner...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Complications: Broken Screws in Spinal Fusion
Managing Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: When to Consider Surgery?
I would like to inquire about the issue of vertebral arch dissociation combined with lumbar spondylolisthesis? Hello, doctor. Four years ago, I visited a doctor due to lower back pain, and I was told that I had a fracture of the lamina in the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae. Re...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, I recommend waiting until the symptoms become more severe before considering spinal fusion surgery. The effectiveness of spinal rehabilitation is limited; it is essential to avoid bending and lifting heavy objects while working. Additionally, contro...[Read More] Managing Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: When to Consider Surgery?
Post-Surgery Recovery: Is Lower Back Pain Normal After L5 Fracture?
Fracture and dislocation of the fifth lumbar vertebra with spondylolisthesis of the fifth lumbar vertebra and first sacral vertebra? Fracture and dislocation of the fifth lumbar vertebra with spondylolisthesis of the fifth lumbar and first sacral vertebrae. Postoperatively, exper...
Dr. Xie Hongjia Reply:
Dear Miss Yi-Yi: Regarding the issue you raised, since each person's situation is different, we recommend following up at the hospital. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery: Is Lower Back Pain Normal After L5 Fracture?
Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Causes, Recovery, and Treatment Options
Inquiry about spondylolisthesis? Dear Vice Dean Li, I previously had a minor car accident where I collided with another vehicle. Although it was a simple bump, the other party was later diagnosed with spondylolisthesis (they indicated it was grade II). The individual did not req...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, experiencing such an incident must have caused you significant psychological stress. 1. Spondylolisthesis may result from a car accident collision, or it is possible that the other party had pre-existing spondylolisthesis. If there are X-rays taken before the accident, it ...[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Causes, Recovery, and Treatment Options
Can Bone Cement Treatment Improve Spinal Slippage in Elderly Patients?
Inquiry about bone cement treatment? Hello, doctor. My mother is 73 years old and previously reported back pain. After a diagnosis, it was determined that she has a spondylolisthesis at the L4-L5 level, leading to surgery for stabilization. However, her pain has not improved over...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
If the bone screw has become loose, it is necessary to determine whether the pain is caused by lumbar instability or if there are other vertebral fractures in order to decide the next steps for management.[Read More] Can Bone Cement Treatment Improve Spinal Slippage in Elderly Patients?
Understanding Spondylolisthesis and Nerve Root Issues in Adolescents
Spondylolisthesis with radiculopathy? Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed with L5 spondylolysis combined with spondylolisthesis in my sophomore year of high school, and it is currently within 25%. 1. Initially, I experienced significant lower back pain (with lumbar discomfort and occa...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Hello, you have L5 spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis. Although you are currently not experiencing pain, there is still a possibility that lower back pain may recur due to bending and lifting heavy objects. The results from your military service physical examination indicate ra...[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis and Nerve Root Issues in Adolescents
Can You Safely Exercise with Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis?
Vertebral arch dissociation with spondylolisthesis? Hello Doctor, I have a fifth lumbar vertebra with spondylolysis and a 10% to 15% slippage. I would like to ask if it is safe for me to engage in fitness activities, such as squats and deadlifts, provided that I maintain proper f...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, vertebral arch dissociation can cause slippage between the upper and lower vertebrae. It is important to take special care in daily activities and avoid heavy lifting, as it may worsen the degree of dissociation. Thank you.[Read More] Can You Safely Exercise with Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis?
Can Cracking Sounds in Your Spine Lead to Paralysis?
Does a "crack" sound from the spine lead to paralysis? I have been experiencing chronic back pain, and my doctor informed me that there is degeneration in my spine that cannot be treated. Recently, I discovered that when my back hurts, lying on a hard bed with my knees ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, this sound is something many people experience. In clinical practice, the main concern is the possibility of spondylolisthesis, which can be diagnosed through X-ray examinations in an orthopedic outpatient setting. Generally speaking, spondylolisthesis does not lead to par...[Read More] Can Cracking Sounds in Your Spine Lead to Paralysis?
Managing Intermittent Knee Pain: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Knee joint stabbing pain? Hello Dr. Tsai, Since this week, my left knee has started to feel itchy, but after two days, I began experiencing intermittent sharp pain, which worsens with touch. I visited an orthopedic clinic for an X-ray, and the doctor mentioned that I have lumba...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
It is not possible to make a diagnosis based solely on written descriptions. It is recommended to continue treatment and observation at the original clinic, or to go to a hospital for further examination and diagnosis.[Read More] Managing Intermittent Knee Pain: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Understanding Coccygeal Dislocation: Steel Pins vs. Spring Implants
Coccygeal dislocation and issues with the steel pins? Hello Doctor: My mother has been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis at the L4-L5 level during her recent check-up. The doctor has determined that she needs surgery to insert four screws. We had originally scheduled the surgery a...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
Currently, the mainstay of surgical treatment for spondylolisthesis at the L4-L5 levels is the use of steel screws for fixation. In cases of spondylolisthesis, there is already spinal instability, and spring-type screws may not provide adequate stabilization. Wishing your loved o...[Read More] Understanding Coccygeal Dislocation: Steel Pins vs. Spring Implants
Do You Need Surgery for a Ruptured Disc? Key Insights and Options
Does a herniated disc require surgery? Hello Doctor: I am 41 years old and about three weeks ago, I experienced severe pain in my lower back that radiated down to my left buttock, the back of my left thigh, and my left heel. After undergoing an MRI, I was diagnosed with a herniat...
Dr. Li Yongheng Reply:
The nucleus pulposus of a herniated disc still has a significant chance of being reabsorbed on its own. In most cases, the symptoms of nerve compression will improve over time, although there is a small possibility of worsening. If the symptoms of nerve compression persist after ...[Read More] Do You Need Surgery for a Ruptured Disc? Key Insights and Options
Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Benefits and Risks of Bone Cement Injection
Spondylolisthesis Hello Doctor: My mother is 75 years old and has been diagnosed with grade 1-2 spondylolisthesis by a specialist. She has been advised to undergo injection of artificial bone cement. I would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment. Thank y...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Vertebral slippage injection of bone cement? This statement may be incorrect. Spondylolisthesis typically causes pain, and if severe, it can compress the nerves. In such cases, the treatment approach is surgical intervention, which may involve the placement of bone screws for sta...[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Benefits and Risks of Bone Cement Injection
Managing Thoracic Vertebra Displacement: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Thoracic vertebral displacement Doctor, I have consulted both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine, but I still cannot resolve the issue of my thoracic vertebra misalignment. During my last visit to the orthopedic doctor, he only advised me to exercise, maintain good...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Are you referring to spondylolisthesis? If so, the treatment approach would depend on the degree of slippage. However, if the doctor has indicated that there are no bone issues, it could be myofascial pain syndrome, and you might consider physical therapy.[Read More] Managing Thoracic Vertebra Displacement: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Understanding Spinal Issues: Spondylolisthesis, Kyphosis, and Compression Fractures
Spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, osteophytes, and compression fractures? Grandma (83 years old) has recently been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, and osteophyte-related compression fractures. She has not yet undergone an MRI, and the physician has assessed that surgery ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, the timing for surgery in cases of spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, osteophytes, and compression fractures should be determined based on MRI findings in conjunction with clinical symptoms. The risks associated with surgery vary from person to person, with the primary concerns...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Issues: Spondylolisthesis, Kyphosis, and Compression Fractures
Understanding Compensation Issues After Chiropractic Adjustments
Compensations caused by spinal adjustments? Hello, Doctor. I have fallen and undergone spinal manipulation (to straighten my spine) and pelvic sacroiliac realignment, and I have also worn a rigid corrective brace. This means that the curvature of my lumbar spine has changed (almo...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You can consult a rehabilitation specialist to determine if rehabilitation therapy is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Compensation Issues After Chiropractic Adjustments
Can Yoga Help with Spondylolisthesis and Spinal Pain?
Spondylolisthesis I was diagnosed by a physician at our local hospital with scoliosis, compression, and spondylolisthesis in my spine. However, I've been experiencing persistent pain. Besides undergoing some rehabilitation, can I also practice yoga? Or will the slippage of t...
Dr. Ye Qingnian Reply:
Scoliosis and spondylolisthesis can lead to lower back pain. It is crucial to avoid lifting heavy objects, carrying water, or holding children. Calcium supplementation is necessary, especially since women over 50 are at a higher risk for osteoporosis. As for practicing yoga, you ...[Read More] Can Yoga Help with Spondylolisthesis and Spinal Pain?
Persistent Pain After Spinal Surgery: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Spondylolisthesis: Persistent Pain After Surgery My mother has experienced spondylolisthesis at the L3, L4, and L5 vertebrae, which has caused pain in her right lower limb. She underwent surgery (orthopedic) and had screws inserted. It has been five months since the surgery, but ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello: This issue depends on whether there is new nerve compression or if it is caused by an existing problem leading to long-term nerve damage. X-rays primarily assess the position of the screws and whether there is successful bone healing. If nerve symptoms are present, a repea...[Read More] Persistent Pain After Spinal Surgery: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Understanding Spondylolysis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Options
Vertebral arch dissociation Hello Doctor: Recently, I experienced lower back pain. Initially, I suspected it might be prostatitis or a ligament strain. I first visited an orthopedic specialist and had an X-ray done. The doctor informed me that I have a condition called spondyloly...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Patients with spondylolisthesis may experience soreness when bending or changing positions, but most do not have nerve compression. It is important to take care of the lower back, avoid heavy lifting, and have regular follow-ups. If any of the following occur: (1) worsening sympt...[Read More] Understanding Spondylolysis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Options