Understanding Open Fractures: Insights on Diagnosis and Treatment
Open fracture Hello Doctor, my relative has a condition of poliomyelitis, which has led to poor development of the lower limbs. As they have aged, they are now unable to walk and require assistance to be carried. They are nearly 70 years old, and recently the patient reported pai...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, an open fracture is defined as a fracture accompanied by a skin injury that communicates with the fracture site. I believe there may be some misunderstanding. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Wang Shou-ji.[Read More] Understanding Open Fractures: Insights on Diagnosis and Treatment
Understanding Radius Fractures in 9-Year-Olds: Healing and Recovery
Radial fracture in a 9-year-old child? Hello, the child fell while playing on a snake board and sustained a fracture of the right radius (the exact location is unknown, whether it is in the distal third or referred to as the radial shaft). The physician performed a closed reducti...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello Jesi: The cast can be removed after 6 weeks (1.5 months). For the first three weeks, follow-up X-rays should be taken weekly (or every two weeks) to confirm that the fracture remains in alignment and has not shifted. Therefore, regular follow-up visits are essential. After ...[Read More] Understanding Radius Fractures in 9-Year-Olds: Healing and Recovery
Post-Fracture Recovery: Can I Walk with Assistive Devices?
Post-fracture surgery Hello, doctor! About six months ago, I accidentally took the wrong staircase and fell, resulting in an ankle dislocation and a fibula fracture. At that time, my ankle was stabilized with internal screws, and the fibula was fixed with a splint. Three months l...
Dr. Wang Jiacheng Reply:
We recommend that you discuss the above situation with your attending physician to determine if any further adjustments are necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Post-Fracture Recovery: Can I Walk with Assistive Devices?
Can I Still Grow Taller? Understanding Growth Potential at Age 13
Is there still a chance for me to grow taller? 1) I am 13 years old, 163 cm tall, and weigh 50 kg. I started developing at the age of 11, and over the past two years, I have only grown an average of 3-4 cm per year. Do I still have a chance to grow taller? My goal is to reach 175...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello Joe: The closure of the growth plates in bones needs to be determined by X-ray. Once they are closed, that part of the bone will no longer grow unless surgery is performed. However, you may still have a chance to grow taller, but it will not be a rapid increase in height. O...[Read More] Can I Still Grow Taller? Understanding Growth Potential at Age 13
Understanding Left Rib Abnormalities: Causes and Concerns
There is an extra piece at the lower edge of the left rib? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a small bony protrusion that appears at the lower left side of my rib cage (near the side waist) when I hold my breath. This has been present for several years, but recently it has...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Prominent ribs are generally not indicative of any specific issues. Scoliosis may cause them to protrude slightly. If you are concerned, you can consider getting an X-ray.[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Abnormalities: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Clavicle Fracture Recovery: Symptoms and Concerns
Comminuted clavicle fracture Hello Doctor, I was in a car accident on May 7th and suffered a comminuted fracture of my left clavicle. After undergoing surgery, I was discharged for recovery. About a month later, while lying down and adjusting my position, I heard two "click&...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The situation you described may require a visit to the hospital for an X-ray to confirm whether there is a fracture and if it is displaced. After surgery for a fracture, it is important to take precautions, as it typically takes two to three months for the bone to heal properly.[Read More] Understanding Clavicle Fracture Recovery: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Heel Pain After Minor Injury: When to Seek Medical Attention
Hit near the heel? Hello Doctor, last night when I got up to go to the bathroom, I accidentally bumped the side of my right heel against the corner of the wall. It hurt a bit at that moment, but I wanted to sleep, so I went back to bed. This morning, I noticed that although there...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The likelihood of a fracture is low. If a fracture does occur, it is usually very painful, making it difficult to stand or walk. If you are still concerned after a few days, getting an X-ray is fine, and you can visit a hospital for an evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Heel Pain After Minor Injury: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Growth Plate Injuries in Young Athletes: Risks and Treatments
Growth plate injury Hello Dr. Lee, Today I took my 13-year-old son for a knee examination due to recurring pain for the past two to three months. The X-ray revealed some bone growth on the growth plate of his right knee, which is quite noticeable to the touch. Since my son loves...
Dr. Li Wenhong Reply:
Hello Mr. Li: The bony prominence you are feeling is likely the tibial tuberosity. In adolescents aged 13 to 15, excessive physical activity can lead to prominence and pain in this area, but it typically does not hurt when not engaging in strenuous activities. Therefore, it is im...[Read More] Understanding Growth Plate Injuries in Young Athletes: Risks and Treatments
Understanding Lower Spine and Right Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lower spine and right lower back pain? In the past, if I kept my back straight, my lower spine would hurt. Pressing down on my spine also causes pain. Recently, I started doing some stretching, including lying on my stomach and lifting my head back. This movement causes significa...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
Online diagnosis is not possible; it is recommended to visit a hospital or clinic for a physical examination and X-ray. It is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist.[Read More] Understanding Lower Spine and Right Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Vitamin D Needs and Bone Health Risks for Indoor Lifestyle
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) T-score 1.8, Z-score -1.4; bilateral femoral T-score -2.2, Z-score -2.0, all indicating the worst results? I stay indoors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to avoid sun exposure, although the indoor lighting is decent and I still get some UV exposur...
Dr. Cai Shanglin Reply:
1. 800 IU. 2. It's unlikely, but it's recommended to rule out the possibility of secondary osteoporosis (suggested to visit an osteoporosis clinic).[Read More] Understanding Vitamin D Needs and Bone Health Risks for Indoor Lifestyle
Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition
Patellar fracture Hello, doctor. On the evening of May 5th, I fell while playing basketball. I landed on both hands and then my left foot, followed by my right knee hitting the ground directly. After that, I started to feel swelling, and during a lateral movement, I heard a poppi...
Dr. Wang Jiacheng Reply:
It is advisable for you to discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Patellar Fractures: Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Nutrition
Understanding Neck and Chest Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Musculoskeletal issues? Doctor, I recently noticed that when I extend my neck forward, I experience pain on both sides of my chest (just below the clavicle). Additionally, I sometimes feel pain in my left rib, which lasts about a second. I previously had a chest X-ray, and the do...
Dr. Xie Hongjia Reply:
Mr. Li Yu-Chin: Hello, it is difficult to clearly understand the situation based solely on your description. It is recommended that you take the time to consult with an orthopedic or thoracic surgeon. The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your hea...[Read More] Understanding Neck and Chest Pain: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Understanding Bone Growth Below the Inner Ankle: Causes and Solutions
A bony prominence beneath the medial malleolus? Both of my feet have a bony prominence below the inner ankle, with the right side being slightly larger. Two years ago, my right foot underwent eversion, and the doctor at that time mentioned it was due to bone impingement, but no s...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, based on your letter, it is possible that you have a condition related to flatfoot affecting the navicular bone. You may want to consult an orthopedic clinic for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Bone Growth Below the Inner Ankle: Causes and Solutions
Can a Deformed Toe Joint Be Corrected After a Fracture?
Toe fracture Hello, doctor. The second joint of my second toe has a gap and is misaligned. However, I did not seek medical attention immediately and only had an X-ray taken after a month. At that time, the orthopedic doctor advised me not to move it and to let the bone heal on it...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Toe fractures typically heal within two months. If there is no pain, surgical treatment is not necessary. Surgical intervention may not restore the toe to its original condition prior to the fracture.[Read More] Can a Deformed Toe Joint Be Corrected After a Fracture?
Understanding Bone Spurs on the Little Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Bunionette (Tailor's bunion) In recent months, I have experienced pain in the bone about 1 cm below the outer side of my little toe whenever I wear shoes and walk. I have tried wide-toed shoes, but the pain persists, causing significant discomfort. I visited a clinic for an ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Degeneration of bones and joints may lead to hyperplasia. 2. Reduce pressure on the affected area by minimizing walking and standing. 3. Decrease stimulation; if there is pain, rest is necessary. 4. If the pain has lessened, walking or brisk walking can be resumed.[Read More] Understanding Bone Spurs on the Little Toe: Causes and Treatment Options
Concerns About Removing Steel Plate After Proximal Humerus Fracture
Issues related to the removal of the plate after proximal humeral fracture in the left arm? Doctor, I had surgery for a proximal humeral fracture in my left arm last June, and I will be returning to the hospital soon for an X-ray to see if I can have the plate removed. I would li...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. There is a risk, but it is very low. 2. It will increase the difficulty and the likelihood of complications, but careful execution of the surgery can usually mitigate these risks. 3. After one year post-surgery, and once it is confirmed that the fracture has healed, the pl...[Read More] Concerns About Removing Steel Plate After Proximal Humerus Fracture
Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Treatment Options and Recovery
Fifth metatarsal fracture On December 26, 2019, I sustained a fifth metatarsal fracture. The original doctor opted for conservative treatment with a cast, but the recovery was not as expected. Below is the X-ray taken during a follow-up visit on May 20, 2020. The current doctor h...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, a fifth metatarsal fracture usually does not require surgery, but your fracture is healing slowly, which may be due to inadequate stabilization in the early stages of the injury. If you are currently walking without symptoms, you can continue with conservative treatment an...[Read More] Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Treatment Options and Recovery
Understanding Ulnar Styloid Fracture: Healing Time and Recovery Tips
Scaphoid tubercle fracture On April 25, I had a motorcycle accident and an X-ray showed a left ulnar styloid fracture with a hairline crack. At first, I couldn't even squeeze toothpaste with my hand, and my wrist couldn't rotate. The doctor didn't put me in a cast ...
Dr. Wang Jiacheng Reply:
I recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician to determine if any additional examinations are necessary. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Ulnar Styloid Fracture: Healing Time and Recovery Tips
Post-Operative Concerns After Distal Radius Fracture Surgery
Postoperative Issues Following Distal Radius Fracture Surgery Hello, Doctor. I underwent a remote distal radius fracture surgery on May 9th (initially a comminuted fracture) using self-funded plates and screws along with artificial bone. I had follow-up X-ray examinations on May ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If the fracture in this area is properly reduced and well stabilized through surgery, rehabilitation exercises can begin. These may include flexion and extension of the fingers, as well as dorsal and palmar flexion of the wrist, following the principle of not causing excessive pa...[Read More] Post-Operative Concerns After Distal Radius Fracture Surgery
Understanding Coccyx Dislocation: Treatment Options and Risks
Coccygeal displacement Dear Doctor, I was in a car accident on May 13, 2020, and since then, I have been experiencing pain in my coccyx. On May 19, 2020, I returned to my original hospital for an X-ray, and the doctor informed me that my coccyx was slightly displaced and that s...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
It is not possible to realign the bone using only the attachments, and there is no necessity for that. Typically, surgery is not required; the family's statement seems to be incorrect. Since the injury is only two weeks old, some pain is expected. Conservative treatment will...[Read More] Understanding Coccyx Dislocation: Treatment Options and Risks