Understanding Arthroscopic Surgery Costs and Treatment for Knee Injuries
What are the surgical treatments and costs associated with arthroscopy? Hello, doctor. Last July, while climbing a rock wall, my knee suddenly made a loud noise and felt loose and painful. I later went to a medical center where I was diagnosed with an "anterior cruciate liga...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Arthroscopic surgery itself is costly under health insurance primarily due to the necessary consumables: the electrocautery used in the arthroscope, disposable tubing, sutures for meniscus repair, PRP, etc. You can inquire with several providers; you might find cheaper options, b...[Read More] Understanding Arthroscopic Surgery Costs and Treatment for Knee Injuries
Understanding Toe Fractures: Healing Time and Surgery Insights
Toe fracture Hello doctor, I fractured the bones in my toes 2, 3, and 4 on February 4th. I underwent surgery twice, with the second surgery around February 26th. Can having two surgeries lead to nonunion of the fracture? How long does it typically take for signs of healing to be ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, you've had surgery twice? I'm not sure why, but it may be difficult to answer. The degree of fracture comminution can affect the healing time. Linear fractures typically heal faster, often showing good recovery in 2 to 3 months. Comminuted fractures heal more slo...[Read More] Understanding Toe Fractures: Healing Time and Surgery Insights
Understanding Inner Knee Pain: Meniscus Injury and Patellar Tendonitis
Medial knee stabbing pain and meniscus pain? Dear Dr. Chen, I would like to consult you regarding an issue I previously inquired about five years ago concerning my knee injury sustained abroad. Following your advice on applying heat and resting, my knee returned to normal after ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, the meniscus does not have nerves, so a tear does not cause pain. Based on your description, it is possible that there is inflammation of the medial collateral ligament and the pes anserinus. Symptoms are likely to occur when bending or straightening the knee. Localized te...[Read More] Understanding Inner Knee Pain: Meniscus Injury and Patellar Tendonitis
Understanding Knee Ligament Strain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Regarding knee ligament sprains? Hello, doctor. Around 2017, I slipped and fell in the bathroom, which was very painful. At that moment, I heard a popping sound in my left knee. I took some pain relievers and rested, and the next day it hurt less, gradually improving over time. H...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
You may need to see a physician to check if there is any ligament injury. At the very least, an X-ray and a physical examination should be performed before deciding on the appropriate treatment method.[Read More] Understanding Knee Ligament Strain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Recovery from Tibia Fractures: Healing Time and Treatment Options
Fracture healing I fell and fractured my left tibia around September 4, 2019. Now, more than a year later, X-rays show that the bone has healed. However, the doctor still hasn't removed the interlocking plate that I paid for out of pocket. I've heard that it takes about...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
The metal plates can be removed; they may be a bit more difficult to take out if they have been in place for a long time. I recommend scheduling a time with your surgeon to have the plates removed. After that, you can resume normal activities and live your life without much to wo...[Read More] Understanding Recovery from Tibia Fractures: Healing Time and Treatment Options
Understanding Inflammation in the L4-L5 Lumbar Spine: Symptoms and Insights
Inflammation of the lumbar spine at the L4-L5 level? Hello Doctor, I experienced unusual pain in my lower back after lifting water in early November last year, which became severe by the evening. Initially, I thought it was a muscle strain, but after two months of no improvement,...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, considering your age and history of strains, if you have no prior history of lower back pain, the likelihood of ankylosing spondylitis is low. A strain of the lower back muscles and soft tissues can lead to chronic back pain and stiffness if not fully recovered, as the bac...[Read More] Understanding Inflammation in the L4-L5 Lumbar Spine: Symptoms and Insights
Understanding Left Clavicle Fractures: Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Options
Left clavicle fracture Hello, Doctor: I fell on March 14 and sustained a fracture of the left clavicle. The fracture is at the distal end, not in the middle. I am currently in Singapore, where I consulted a doctor and had an X-ray taken. During my follow-up appointment on the 25t...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, the chance of nonunion is high for distal clavicle fractures. It is recommended to undergo surgery. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Left Clavicle Fractures: Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Options
Understanding Toe Fractures: When to Consider a Cast for Healing
Toe fracture Hello doctor, about two weeks ago I fractured my right foot's ring finger. After seeking medical attention, the doctor used breathable tape to stabilize it with my middle finger and advised me not to walk. Three days ago, I returned for a follow-up X-ray and fou...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, 1. Paper tape can be used to secure the 3rd, 4th, and 5th toes together for better stabilization. 2. A cast provides better immobilization but is less convenient; a protective shoe can be used as an alternative to a cast, making daily activities more manageable.[Read More] Understanding Toe Fractures: When to Consider a Cast for Healing
Can I Lift Heavy Objects After Healing a Metacarpal Fracture?
Can I lift heavy objects after a metacarpal fracture has healed? Hello doctor, I have a fracture of the fifth metacarpal. Last week, I had an X-ray, and my attending physician said that my bone has completely healed, and I don't need to return for follow-up. I had surgery on...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
If the fracture has healed, normal weight-bearing can be resumed without concern.[Read More] Can I Lift Heavy Objects After Healing a Metacarpal Fracture?
When Will My Ankle Fracture Heal? Pain, Swelling, and Walking Recovery
When will a right ankle fracture heal, and when can I expect to recover from swelling, pain, and walking? Hello Doctor: Regarding case #162885, I had surgery on October 17 and my foot has not healed, preventing me from walking. The doctor mentioned that the bone has not healed pr...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Is it normal to experience swelling, numbness, and pain after getting home from work? ANS: It is quite common to experience swelling in the lower limbs after surgery due to blood perfusion. As long as there is sufficient mobility, the swelling should subside. However...[Read More] When Will My Ankle Fracture Heal? Pain, Swelling, and Walking Recovery
Can Surgery Help Relieve My Persistent Foot Pain?
Can surgery be performed? Hello Doctor: The bone just below my right big toe didn't hurt much last year, so I didn't pay much attention to it. However, starting in January, it suddenly became swollen (sometimes so swollen that I can hardly move it) and painful (sharp pa...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if there is no history of trauma, one should pay attention to gout. Hallux valgus rarely presents symptoms at such a young age. If there is no improvement with medication and rest, further examination by an orthopedic specialist is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about ...[Read More] Can Surgery Help Relieve My Persistent Foot Pain?
Concerns About Height Growth: Nutrition and Lifestyle Tips for Teens
Concerns about growth height? Hello, doctor. I am currently a ninth-grade student, with a height of 164.1 cm and a weight of around 108 lbs. I usually go to bed quite late, sometimes until 1 AM, with an average bedtime around midnight, and I exercise about once a week. I would li...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello: It is not recommended for adolescents in their developmental stage to use fasting for weight control. Instead, a low-carbohydrate diet (reducing starch) and appropriate exercise are advised. Calcium supplements are just nutritional supplements, and any brand of calcium can...[Read More] Concerns About Height Growth: Nutrition and Lifestyle Tips for Teens
Understanding Recovery Time and Pain Management for Ankle Fractures
When will a right ankle fracture heal, and when can I expect to see a reduction in swelling and pain, as well as the ability to walk? Hello Doctor: Regarding case #162885, I had surgery on October 17 and my foot has not healed since then, making it impossible for me to walk. The ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, 1. Is it normal to experience swelling, numbness, and pain after returning home from work? ANS: It is quite common to experience swelling in the lower limbs after surgery due to blood flow. As long as there is sufficient mobility, the swelling should subside. However, i...[Read More] Understanding Recovery Time and Pain Management for Ankle Fractures
Knee Ligamentitis and Mild Meniscus Injury: Diagnosis and Recovery Insights
Patellar ligamentitis and mild meniscal injury? Dear Dr. Shi, I apologize for the intrusion. Since the beginning of last month, I have been experiencing sharp pain on the inner side of my knee. There have been no records of falls or injuries during this period. After a week, the...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. May be related to previous knee injuries. 2. May require approximately six weeks.[Read More] Knee Ligamentitis and Mild Meniscus Injury: Diagnosis and Recovery Insights
Managing Pain After Pelvic Fracture: When to Seek Medical Advice
Pelvic fracture Hello Doctor, my mother has been hospitalized for a month due to a left pelvic fracture. She underwent skeletal traction treatment for four weeks and has been discharged for over ten days. The doctor advised her not to bear weight, so she mostly remains in bed and...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Pelvic fractures typically show initial callus formation around six weeks post-injury, at which point the fracture site gains a certain degree of stability, leading to a gradual reduction in pain rather than an abrupt decrease. Therefore, there is no need to rush for an earlier f...[Read More] Managing Pain After Pelvic Fracture: When to Seek Medical Advice
Best Supportive Gear for Non-Displaced Fifth Metatarsal Fractures
Fifth metatarsal fracture (split) Hello Doctor, I have a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of my right foot. I went to an orthopedic clinic for an X-ray, and since there is no displacement, I did not need a cast or surgery. I would like to ask which type of brace is suitable for w...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Typically, protective gear can effectively safeguard for about four weeks, after which normal activities can be resumed without the need for special treatment.[Read More] Best Supportive Gear for Non-Displaced Fifth Metatarsal Fractures
Fifth Metatarsal Neck Fracture: To Operate or Not?
Is surgical reduction necessary for a fracture-dislocation of the fifth metatarsal head and neck? Hello, Doctor. Currently, I have a dislocated fracture of the neck of the fifth metatarsal in my left foot, which has been 10 days. I have consulted several doctors: 1. Last Saturday...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
1. If there is a dislocation of the neck of the fifth metatarsal, is surgery necessary? >>> If it is completely displaced, surgery is generally recommended to reduce the risk of complications and to accelerate healing. If surgery is not performed, observing for two weeks...[Read More] Fifth Metatarsal Neck Fracture: To Operate or Not?
Understanding Persistent Pain and Swelling in the Fifth Toe: Causes and Solutions
Pain in the fifth toe? Your question: Hello doctor, I accidentally kicked a door in August 2020 during the summer, and until now my fifth toe is still red and swollen, with a noticeable protrusion when touched. It doesn't hurt much, but there is still some pain when I touch ...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
Hello: Since it has been seven months and you are still experiencing swelling and pain, I recommend that you visit a doctor for an X-ray to address your concerns. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain and Swelling in the Fifth Toe: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Finger Joint Lump After Basketball Injury: What to Do?
Finger joints After playing basketball and eating carrots, I didn't apply ice immediately or seek further treatment. There is a noticeable hard lump on the second joint of my ring finger. I only went to see a doctor two weeks after noticing it. An X-ray showed no fractures, ...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, if the activity is not affected, there is no need to worry. You can simply apply heat and continue with your activities. Finger sprains, especially with swelling around the joints, may not completely resolve, but as long as the activity is not significantly hindered, it is...[Read More] Persistent Finger Joint Lump After Basketball Injury: What to Do?
Do You Always Need Surgery for a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?
Fifth metatarsal displaced closed fracture: Is surgery always necessary? Hello Dr. Chen, this afternoon I went to the United Hospital for a consultation and confirmed that I have a fracture in the head and neck of the fifth metatarsal. The doctor indicated that surgery is needed ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Fractures can often be treated without surgery, but a physician must personally evaluate the situation and review X-rays to provide recommendations. The severity of fractures in the same area can vary significantly, and the treatment methods differ accordingly. A thorough assessm...[Read More] Do You Always Need Surgery for a Fifth Metatarsal Fracture?