How to Prevent Nighttime Hand Cramps After Labor-Intensive Work
Hand cramps I have been doing manual labor with my hands for a week, and now I experience cramps in my fingers at night. Initially, it was my little finger, but recently it has been my thumb. Sometimes, I experience cramps twice at night, and after getting up, my fingers feel num...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Drink a cup of warm milk (over 400cc) before bedtime. 2. Soak in warm water (40 degrees Celsius) for 15 minutes. 3. If there is no improvement, you need to see a rehabilitation specialist for an examination (nerve conduction study and electromyography) and treatment.[Read More] How to Prevent Nighttime Hand Cramps After Labor-Intensive Work
Effective Self-Care Strategies for Shoulder Blade Pain Relief
Shoulder blade pain? Hello, Dr. Chen! I have been experiencing pain in my left scapula for a long time, and it has previously been so severe that I couldn't move my left arm down to the elbow. After undergoing rehabilitation, it improved, but recently, after performing some ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. It may be due to cervical nerve compression (the left scapula corresponds to the fifth and sixth cervical segments; the left arm to the elbow joint corresponds to the seventh cervical and first thoracic nerve root compression). In addition to electrical therapy, cervical tract...[Read More] Effective Self-Care Strategies for Shoulder Blade Pain Relief
How to Alleviate Foot Cramps Near the Big Toe and Ankle
Foot cramps Hello, Director Chen! Recently, I've been experiencing cramps near the big toe of my left foot, sometimes close to the ankle. This often occurs when I step on the ground, and it usually takes about 500 meters of walking before it gradually feels better. What can ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. It is possible that there has been a previous sports injury or slight tendon shortening due to aging. 2. Standing on an inclined board can help stretch the hamstrings or perform other joint movements for warm-up. 3. Gradually increase strength training for the ankle and calf m...[Read More] How to Alleviate Foot Cramps Near the Big Toe and Ankle
Effective Rehabilitation Treatments for Back Pain Beyond Waist Support
About waist circumference? Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing lower back pain, and my physician advised me to wear a lumbar support belt. It felt comfortable at first, but after less than two hours, I developed a skin allergy on my lower back, which is quite frustrating. Are...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Wearing a cotton garment underneath the waist support can help prevent irritation. 2. Consider purchasing softer and more comfortable waist supports from abroad, which offer better angles and quality materials. 3. For skin allergies, wash with clean water (warm water) without ...[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Treatments for Back Pain Beyond Waist Support
Understanding MRI Results: What to Do When Symptoms Persist Despite a Negative Report
MRI Examination Report Hello, Director Pan. Recently, the doctor found that my reflexes in my hands and feet were abnormally strong, so I was scheduled for an MRI. The results came back negative, but the doctor mentioned that there might be slight compression on the C4 nerve root...
Dr. Pan Yingda Reply:
First of all, congratulations on your normal MRI results, so you can rest assured that there are at least no "major" issues. Problems with the C1 to C4 nerve roots primarily manifest as pain and discomfort in the head and neck area, but since the MRI has been done, ther...[Read More] Understanding MRI Results: What to Do When Symptoms Persist Despite a Negative Report
Understanding Gout: How Irregular Sleep Affects Your Condition
The last time? I would like to learn more about my mild gout. Recently, my sleep schedule has been irregular. Could this be affecting my condition? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Zheng Shunping Reply:
In general, gout commonly affects the toe joints or other joints in the limbs, and it is very rare for it to occur in peripheral areas such as the armpits.[Read More] Understanding Gout: How Irregular Sleep Affects Your Condition
Understanding Intermittent Pain Under the Armpit: When to See a Rehab Specialist
excuse me? I would like to ask about experiencing pain in the left or right armpit extending to the ribcage for a duration of about ten minutes, followed by a sensation of numbness, after which the pain subsides. Recently, I have been experiencing this again, and while it used to...
Dr. Zheng Shunping Reply:
In response to your question: Based on your description of symptoms, pain from the left or right armpit to the rib cage is a relatively uncommon condition clinically. It may be related to intercostal muscle or intercostal nerve issues, or other rarer diseases. It is advisable for...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Pain Under the Armpit: When to See a Rehab Specialist
Understanding Chronic Myofascial Pain: When Sleep Disrupts Your Life
If I don't get a full 8 hours of sleep, my back hurts so much that I can't sleep at all..? I started experiencing pain after running at the playground last Friday. After going to bed, I noticed that I would wake up in the middle of the night due to pain, and lying flat ...
Dr. Pan Yingda Reply:
Sorry for the late response! I didn't check online to see if anyone had questions. Basically, "myofascial pain syndrome" does not typically present this way; I think it might be a slight postural strain. The most common area affected is the junction between the rib...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Myofascial Pain: When Sleep Disrupts Your Life
Understanding Neck Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Doctor, please help me? Hello, Director Pan. In mid-August, I went for folk therapy and ended up getting injured, resulting in swelling of my jaw and a feeling of dizziness, along with difficulty focusing on near objects. Initially, I didn't think much of it, so I just visit...
Dr. Pan Yingda Reply:
Basically, if what you described is accurate, I think it’s quite serious. When I say "if," I mean that some symptoms are very subjective. For example, I had a case where a patient complained of chest pain, and after seeing multiple doctors without relief, she ended up i...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Can Rehabilitation Help with Achilles Tendinitis Pain Relief?
Achilles tendonitis Hello Dr. Chen! My heel is unable to perform dorsiflexion due to swelling and pain, and it is very painful even with light pressure. The painful area is located 3 to 4 centimeters from the attachment site of the Achilles tendon. I have seen an orthopedic docto...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. You can go to the rehabilitation department for electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy. 2. Soak in warm water at home. 3. Perform stretching exercises for the hamstrings regularly.[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help with Achilles Tendinitis Pain Relief?
Swimming with Herniated Discs: Safe Practices and Precautions
Herniated disc Hello Director Chen! Regarding the issue of herniated discs, may I ask if swimming is permissible in addition to rehabilitation? If so, which swimming styles should be avoided? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Cervical disc herniation; swimming is a beneficial exercise, and soaking in warm water in a spa can also be helpful. 2. Breaststroke is recommended, as freestyle requires body rotation, which may not be suitable. 3. Lumbar traction can be beneficial.[Read More] Swimming with Herniated Discs: Safe Practices and Precautions
Understanding Shoulder and Neck Pain: Seeking the Right Treatment Options
Pain, soreness, and numbness? Hello, four years ago I experienced soreness and numbness in my shoulder, neck, and arm. After a doctor's diagnosis, I underwent surgery on cervical vertebrae 4-7. Recently, for the past six months, I have been experiencing constant tightness an...
Dr. Pan Yingda Reply:
Hello, I apologize for being busy lately and almost forgetting to reply. If surgery is not being considered (which is generally unnecessary), then definitely consult a rehabilitation specialist! My recommendations are: 1. Posture: Keep your head extended upward to lengthen the ne...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder and Neck Pain: Seeking the Right Treatment Options
Rehabilitation Tips for Left Arm Fracture Recovery After Accident
Left arm fracture? Hello Dr. Zheng, 1. In July of this year, I was involved in a car accident and fractured my left arm. When I stand, I can only raise my left arm to about 120 degrees. The doctor advised me to use the wall to assist with upward movement, but my left arm has not...
Dr. Zheng Shunping Reply:
In response to your question: Based on your symptom description, it appears that you have a fracture near the left humeral shoulder joint. Generally, post-surgery, you will need to undergo progressive rehabilitation therapy to improve joint stiffness. It is advisable to discuss y...[Read More] Rehabilitation Tips for Left Arm Fracture Recovery After Accident
Can Physical Therapy Help Treat Plantar Fasciitis from Prolonged Standing?
Plantar fasciitis Hello Dr. Chen! I have been suffering from plantar fasciitis due to prolonged standing at work. Can the rehabilitation department provide treatment for this? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. You can start by using appropriate insoles and soft shoes, and reduce activities such as hiking or intense exercise. 2. Electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy can be performed. 3. Engage in appropriate stretching exercises for the calf muscles. 4. Soaking in warm ...[Read More] Can Physical Therapy Help Treat Plantar Fasciitis from Prolonged Standing?
Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Right Arm Strain After Swimming
Right arm strain? Hello, Dr. Chen! Swimming has always been my favorite sport, but a month ago, I unexpectedly strained my right arm. X-rays show that the bones are intact, but despite daily heat therapy and applying ointment, there has been no improvement. What would you recomme...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Muscle and tendon strains should be treated with ice during the acute phase. 2. In the chronic phase, deep heat therapies such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and laser therapy should be added for improvement. 3. Intense exercise should be temporarily suspended.[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Right Arm Strain After Swimming
Preventing Elbow Dislocation: Tips for Safe Recovery and Rehabilitation
Elbow dislocation Hello, Dr. Chen! Two months ago, I dislocated my elbow due to a fall, but fortunately, there were no associated fractures. I used a sling to immobilize my elbow and have rested for several weeks. However, I still have lingering fears. Could you please advise me ...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
(1) After an elbow dislocation, the ligaments may become elongated, increasing the likelihood of future dislocations. (2) Regularly applying heat to the area, stretching the muscles, strengthening the muscle groups above and below the elbow, warming up before exercise, and wearin...[Read More] Preventing Elbow Dislocation: Tips for Safe Recovery and Rehabilitation
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis: Tips for Hand Care and Rehabilitation
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello Dr. Chen! I would like to ask how to care for my fingers if I have rheumatoid arthritis to prevent it from worsening. Is rehabilitation possible? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Soak in warm water regularly and perform joint exercises. 2. Avoid holding objects for too long and try to use larger joints instead of smaller ones for tasks. 3. Avoid excessive strain and strengthen local muscle strength. 4. Consider visiting a rehabilitation departmen...[Read More] Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis: Tips for Hand Care and Rehabilitation
Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Managing Post-Injury Muscle and Joint Pain
How to maintain musculoskeletal health? Hello, doctor! After the car accident, I feel unwell all over whenever the weather changes, and my injured muscles and bones are particularly sore. Besides keeping warm, what rehabilitation treatments can help improve my condition? Thank yo...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Rehabilitation may include laser therapy, ultrasound, shortwave therapy, and electrical stimulation (interferential current and silver point electrical stimulation). 2. Strengthening of the muscles around the local joints should be emphasized. 3. A re-evaluation should be cond...[Read More] Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Managing Post-Injury Muscle and Joint Pain
Managing Knee Pain: When to Stop Running and Seek Rehab
Knee pain Hello Dr. Chen: I experience pain at the lower end of my kneecap when jogging. After consulting medical literature, the symptoms seem to indicate inflammation of the knee ligaments. Following the book's instructions, I applied ice packs first, then used anti-inflam...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Knee pain may be caused by patellar tendonitis, chondromalacia, ligament sprains, etc. It is advisable to stop running and weight training. 2. Rehabilitation may include deep heat therapy and electrical stimulation to promote improvement. 3. If ineffective, further evaluation ...[Read More] Managing Knee Pain: When to Stop Running and Seek Rehab
Can Rehabilitation Help Relieve Arm Pain and Stiffness?
Arm pain Hello, Director. For the past two weeks, I have been doing too much physical housework, which has resulted in significant soreness in my arms, especially my left arm, which often experiences mild spasms. Additionally, I have stiffness in my neck. Can rehabilitation thera...
Dr. Chen Xianchang Reply:
1. Bilateral arm soreness may be due to muscle overuse or cervical radiculopathy. 2. You can visit a rehabilitation department for heat therapy, electrical stimulation, and cervical traction, and consider using analgesics and muscle relaxants. 3. If these treatments are ineffec...[Read More] Can Rehabilitation Help Relieve Arm Pain and Stiffness?