Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Lumbar and sacral spine issues? Hello doctor, on September 4, 2023, I twisted my ankle while moving branches and hit the root of the branch. The trunk pressed against my groin area, but I have no bruising or external injuries. Currently, there is only slight pain in the groin are...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
A spinal contusion without a fracture typically heals within four weeks. Applying heat or taking pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Understanding Metatarsal Fractures: Complications After Plate Removal
Metatarsal fracture Hello, doctor. I had a regrettable incident while having a plate removed in a rural area: 1. I fractured my metatarsal in early August last year and had a plate inserted. After a year, I returned for a follow-up, and after an X-ray, the doctor assessed that ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. It is usually necessary to confirm that the fracture has healed before removing the metal plate. 2. It is possible that it has not fully healed yet.[Read More] Understanding Metatarsal Fractures: Complications After Plate Removal
Understanding Sharp Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Solutions
Sharp pain under the rib cage? Hello Doctor: In mid-July, I experienced a noticeable squeezing and stabbing pain under my left ribcage whenever I bent forward, but these issues do not occur when I am standing. I visited a neurologist, who diagnosed me with intercostal nerve infla...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
If you have had an X-ray and nothing significant was found, you can continue taking your medication and apply heat. This is usually caused by a muscle strain or fasciitis, and it typically improves in about two to three months.[Read More] Understanding Sharp Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Solutions
Post-Operative Care for Patellar Fracture: Rehabilitation and Concerns
Postoperative care for patellar fracture? Hello, Doctor. At the end of last month, I slipped in the bathroom and my knee directly hit the ground, causing a fracture of the patella into two pieces. I have had it fixed with wires at the hospital and am currently undergoing rehabili...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
After the surgery for a fractured bone, it is important to protect the area for a period of time. Premature bending movements may cause the fracture site to separate. It is essential to wait until complete healing occurs before fully bending the knee joint. Ice therapy can be app...[Read More] Post-Operative Care for Patellar Fracture: Rehabilitation and Concerns
Recovery Tips for Burst Fractures: Safe Mobility After Spinal Injury
Vertebral fracture Dear Doctor, I hope this message finds you well! I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a "burst fracture of the third cervical vertebra" (with vertebral body collapse of 0.3-0.4 cm). I have been resting at home for 7 weeks now. Most of th...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Vertebral fractures typically develop callus around eight weeks and usually heal completely by twelve weeks. Before that, some movement is allowed, as activity can promote faster recovery. You can have an X-ray at eight weeks to check on the healing progress of the fracture.[Read More] Recovery Tips for Burst Fractures: Safe Mobility After Spinal Injury
Understanding Open Finger Fractures: Recovery and Nerve Sensation Issues
Open fracture of the finger? Hello doctor, on August 29, 2023, I had an open fracture of the third and fourth fingers due to work. I underwent emergency surgery where two steel pins were inserted into the proximal phalanx of the third finger and one steel pin into the proximal ph...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
Numbness may be due to nerve damage, which could take some time to improve. Additionally, you may ask your doctor to prescribe medication to alleviate the numbness, typically vitamin B12 or similar supplements.[Read More] Understanding Open Finger Fractures: Recovery and Nerve Sensation Issues
Concerns About Spinal Screw Loosening After Minimally Invasive Surgery
The spinal fixation screws fell out two weeks after surgery? Hello, doctor. I suffered a spinal fracture from lifting heavy objects, and the doctor said he would only perform minimally invasive surgery, which would cost about 210,000 NTD out of pocket. The doctor mentioned that a...
Dr. Wang Shouji Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, it is important to be cautious with activities until complete bone healing occurs before the removal of the bone screws. The surgery for the removal of bone screws is covered by health insurance and does not require additional out-of-pocket expenses. Ch...[Read More] Concerns About Spinal Screw Loosening After Minimally Invasive Surgery
Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tips
Thumb issues Hello Doctor, my right thumb's interphalangeal joint started hurting about a week ago, and I would like to ask you some questions: Currently, the symptoms are that when viewed from the back of the hand, the right side of the interphalangeal joint is particularly...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. It could be ligament inflammation. If there is an issue with the bone, an X-ray will be needed to confirm it. 2. You can rest and take some anti-inflammatory medication. 3. Try to avoid using your thumb as much as possible. 4. If there is no improvement after two weeks, consul...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Tips
Understanding Cuboid Bone Fractures: Recovery, Pain Management, and Exercises
Cuboid bone fracture Hello doctor, I fell on July 29 due to numbness in my leg when getting out of bed, resulting in a fracture of the talus bone. I went to the emergency room immediately, and the doctor applied a removable cast to stabilize it. On August 28, I had an X-ray, and ...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry about the so-called "dice bone," are you referring to the femur (thigh bone) or the patella (kneecap)? You also mentioned the ankle and heel. If it is a fracture of the femur or patella, most cases require surgical treatment, as surgery can...[Read More] Understanding Cuboid Bone Fractures: Recovery, Pain Management, and Exercises
Understanding Elbow Pain After Forearm Radius Fracture Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Postoperative care for a radial fracture in the middle of the forearm? Hello Doctor: I had a titanium alloy plate fixation surgery for a fracture of the radius in the middle of my forearm three weeks ago. Since the surgery, I still cannot bend my elbow enough to touch my face or ...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, the elbow joint, particularly the radiocapitellar joint, is especially prone to dislocation. It is recommended that you consult a physician for an X-ray or CT scan of the elbow. If there are no abnormalities, you can proceed with rehabilitation with peace of mind.[Read More] Understanding Elbow Pain After Forearm Radius Fracture Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Ankle Pain After Ligament Injury and Cartilage Damage
The ankle was previously injured in a rollover accident, resulting in a ligament tear and cartilage damage? I'm sorry to bother you. In April of this year, I misstepped while going down the stairs, causing my foot to twist. It became swollen, and I later developed bruising. ...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for confirmation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Ankle Pain After Ligament Injury and Cartilage Damage
Where to Get Patellofemoral Joint X-Ray in Taipei for Knee Pain?
Which hospital in Taipei offers X-ray examinations for the patellofemoral joint? Hello Dr. You, due to long hours of work and lack of exercise, I started running for fitness after turning 50. However, I neglected to properly warm up before running after such a long time without e...
Dr. You Dianqi Reply:
It is recommended to visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation. After assessment by the physician, necessary treatments and examinations will be arranged. You may also discuss any concerns with the physician. Thank you.[Read More] Where to Get Patellofemoral Joint X-Ray in Taipei for Knee Pain?
Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies
Lower back pain and upper back pain? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing this issue for over a month now. When I lie down to sleep, whether on my side or on my back, after about 5-6 hours, I wake up due to pain in the middle of my upper back, making it impossible to continue...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you find a nearby physician for an examination. An X-ray should be taken, and if necessary, an MRI should be performed to check for any nerve damage.[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies
Understanding Recovery from Burst Fractures: Key Questions Answered
Vertebral fracture Hello, Dr. Chen! I was rear-ended on the highway and ended up with a "burst fracture of the third vertebra," with a 0.3 cm vertebral body depression, but no nerve compression. Although surgery is not required at this time, the doctor advised me to res...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, 1. To determine the condition, it is generally recommended to follow up with X-rays every 6 weeks. 2. It is correct to rest for the first three weeks; thereafter, when getting out of bed, you should wear a supportive brace and avoid bending at the waist. 3. After the fract...[Read More] Understanding Recovery from Burst Fractures: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Lower back pain and upper back pain? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing this issue for over a month now. When I lie down to sleep, whether on my side or flat, after about 5-6 hours, I wake up due to severe pain in the middle of my upper back, making it impossible to continu...
Dr. Chen Bochen Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you find a nearby physician for an examination. An X-ray should be taken, and if necessary, an MRI should be performed to check for any nerve damage.[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Clavicle Fractures: What to Expect
Postoperative care for clavicle fracture? Hello, doctor. I suffered a right clavicle fracture due to a car accident on July 25. I underwent surgery on July 26 to have a titanium alloy plate inserted. On August 7, I returned for a follow-up X-ray, and the doctor said the bone cond...
Dr. Chen Yongxue Reply:
The duration ranges from 6 weeks to 3 months, depending on the intensity of the movements.[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Clavicle Fractures: What to Expect
Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Healing and Risks
Fracture of the fifth metatarsal (non-surgical)? Hello, Doctor: I sustained a fracture in my fifth metatarsal on June 13, 2023, and I was immediately placed in a cast. However, during a follow-up appointment on June 27, the doctor mentioned that there was a slight re-fracture in ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
An X-ray is necessary to determine if there is a fracture.[Read More] Understanding Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: Healing and Risks
Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Tibial Fractures: What to Expect
Post-operative care for tibial fractures? On July 19, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a comminuted fracture of the left femur, with the fracture extending approximately 30 centimeters from above the knee joint to below the hip joint. I also sustained a fracture ...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The duration for which a walker is needed depends on the healing status of the bone, which should be assessed through follow-up X-rays. If it is not a comminuted fracture, typically, one can start walking within three months, but a walker will still be necessary. To safely discon...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Tibial Fractures: What to Expect
Understanding Knee Injury Treatments: Surgery vs. Alternative Options
Treatment methods for knee injuries? Four months ago, after exercising, I suddenly found it difficult to squat down the next day. My right knee was somewhat swollen but not painful. A few days later, I visited an orthopedic doctor who drained the excess fluid. After the drainage,...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
The MRI report did not indicate a meniscus tear, so conservative treatment can be considered. If there is no improvement, we can reassess the situation later.[Read More] Understanding Knee Injury Treatments: Surgery vs. Alternative Options
Understanding Spinal Fractures: Recovery Tips and Common Concerns
Vertebral fracture Hello, Doctor! I was in a car accident on the highway, rear-ended by another vehicle, and was taken to the emergency room. After a CT scan and X-rays, the doctor diagnosed me with a "burst fracture of the third vertebra," with a vertebral body depress...
Dr. Shi Guozheng Reply:
1. Pain caused by vertebral fractures. 2. It may be due to lying down for too long, leading to compression. 3. If there are no neurological symptoms, an MRI is not necessary. 4. Both upper and lower limbs should be mobilized, ensuring every joint is moved.[Read More] Understanding Spinal Fractures: Recovery Tips and Common Concerns