Potential Health Issues from Carrying Heavy Books in College
Issues Related to Carrying Heavy Loads Hello, after starting university, I often carry many textbooks and walk a lot around campus. I would like to know what problems this might cause and under what circumstances I should seek a medical check-up. Thank you for taking the time to ...
Dr. Wang Zhaomin Reply:
It is advisable to use a backpack with both shoulder straps and a design that includes pressure-relieving features when carrying heavy loads. Although you are carrying weight, it is important to maintain good posture by keeping your head up and chest out, and to avoid bending or ...[Read More] Potential Health Issues from Carrying Heavy Books in College
Understanding Herniated Discs: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Herniated disc I am only 18 years old, and due to long-term heavy lifting combined with being overweight, I have developed a herniated disc that is compressing my nerves. The pain became unbearable, which is why I finally went to see a doctor. Initially, I only had lower back pai...
Dr. Wang Zhaomin Reply:
Rehabilitation therapy often requires a period of treatment before results are seen. Currently, after only one week of treatment, it may not necessarily yield effective results. It is important to continue with rehabilitation and medication, as well as to use supportive devices a...[Read More] Understanding Herniated Discs: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Herniated Discs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery
Herniated disc Hello, at the beginning of the year, I suddenly started experiencing lower back pain, which is accompanied by pain in the back of my right thigh and buttock. Initially, the pain was most severe in the morning, making it very difficult to get out of bed. At night, I...
Dr. Xu Zhenrong Reply:
1. The imaging you provided shows herniation of the intervertebral discs at the L4/L5 and L5/S1 levels, with the former being more severe. In addition to obtaining more cross-sectional images, medical imaging must be correlated with clinical symptoms and physical examination find...[Read More] Understanding Herniated Discs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery
Improving Degenerative Disc Disease: Rehabilitation and Recovery Timeline
Degenerative Disc Disease Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if rehabilitation will help improve this condition? (I am referring to treatments like electrical stimulation, lumbar traction, or heat therapy.) My boyfriend has already been doing his own exercise rehabilitation, but ...
Dr. Wang Zhaomin Reply:
In general, rehabilitation therapy has a certain degree of effectiveness for conditions such as herniated discs. However, the treatment outcomes can vary from person to person. Some patients may experience improvement within a week, while others may require ongoing treatment for ...[Read More] Improving Degenerative Disc Disease: Rehabilitation and Recovery Timeline
Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Pain in the left lower back near the center, with pain upon exertion? I usually work night shifts and do not lift heavy objects, but I often sit and use the computer. I experience pain in the middle of my left lower back, near the spine. The pain is internal, and it only hurts wh...
Dr. Wang Zhaomin Reply:
There are numerous causes of lower back pain, including muscle strains, degenerative arthritis, or herniated discs, which can all present similar symptoms. It is recommended to visit a qualified medical facility specializing in neurosurgery, orthopedics, or rehabilitation for ear...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Neck Pain: Recovery Tips and Long-Term Effects
Neck pain Hello Doctor, I have recently experienced muscle pain in my head and discovered that I also have discomfort in my shoulders and neck. I have been active and healthy since childhood until I turned 18. However, in the past two years, I have been staying at home for long p...
Dr. Wang Huijun Reply:
Hello Mr. Zhang: 1. In my experience, your neck pain issue is likely not just a simple neck muscle strain. Although there is currently no obvious herniated disc, if it is not completely resolved at this stage, it will inevitably worsen over time. 2. Therefore, the third point i...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Recovery Tips and Long-Term Effects
Managing Numbness in Toes After Running: Effective Rehabilitation Strategies
Numbness in the toes? Hello Dr. Wang, I participated in a half marathon in the second half of last year, and after finishing, I noticed pain in the ball of my foot. This later developed into numbness in my big toe, and even in winter, I experience numbness in my big toe when the ...
Dr. Wang Zhaomin Reply:
There are many reasons that can cause numbness in the toes, including herniated discs, lower limb nerve compression, and neuromas. It is currently not advisable to continue jogging, standing for long periods, or engaging in heavy labor. It is recommended to visit a qualified medi...[Read More] Managing Numbness in Toes After Running: Effective Rehabilitation Strategies
Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Causes of Persistent Pain and Symptoms
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, a while ago, the rehabilitation specialist told me that I have an L5/S1 herniated disc, and an electromyography test confirmed that there is compression. I have been following the doctor's advice for rehabilitation, reporting almost daily for the...
Dr. Li Weiqiang Reply:
Hello, if the electromyography (EMG) examination has confirmed nerve compression, it is recommended to continue rehabilitation until symptoms are reduced to 20% before stopping. Stability is defined as maintaining this improvement for six months without the reappearance of sympto...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Causes of Persistent Pain and Symptoms
Understanding Gluteal Muscle Injuries: Diagnosis and Rehabilitation Options
Gluteus maximus injury Hello, doctor. I am currently a university student. In May 2016, I sustained an injury while playing basketball. Over the past year, I have undergone various treatments and received different diagnoses from multiple physicians, but my condition has not impr...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
A muscle ultrasound can be performed to check for swelling or inflammation in the gluteus maximus or piriformis muscle.[Read More] Understanding Gluteal Muscle Injuries: Diagnosis and Rehabilitation Options
Understanding Symptoms: Can Tendonitis Cause Nerve Compression?
Confused about the symptoms in my body? Hello Doctor: In mid-April of this year, I visited an orthopedic clinic. At that time, my symptoms included pain in my buttocks after sitting for too long, pain in my left leg after walking for extended periods (sometimes my calf would also...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
The symptoms indeed suggest a suspicion of sciatic nerve compression, but it is also possible that the compression is caused by a herniated disc affecting the lumbosacral nerves or by the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve (which originates from the lumbosacral nerve...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Can Tendonitis Cause Nerve Compression?
Understanding Disc Herniation Rehab: Is Pain During Lumbar Traction Normal?
Questions about rehabilitation for herniated discs and lumbar traction? Hello, doctor. I have a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level and need rehabilitation. When I stretch my lower back, the affected leg becomes numb and feels almost devoid of sensation. When I touch it with the ot...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
Discomfort during lumbar traction may be due to posture issues or the inability of the lumbar and back muscles to withstand the pulling force. In such cases, the severity of the discomfort should be assessed to determine the appropriate response. For instance, if pain persists af...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation Rehab: Is Pain During Lumbar Traction Normal?
Understanding Your Symptoms: Disc Herniation vs. Piriformis Syndrome
I would like to inquire whether it is a herniated disc or piriformis syndrome? Hello, doctor. My symptoms started in early October. Initially, I felt tightness in the left side of my lower back and hip joint. One day, I did some stretching and leg lifts while lying down, and I&#x...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
Is it a herniated disc or piriformis syndrome? Both are possible. An electromyography (EMG) test with needle insertion may help differentiate between the two, but if the nerve root is not injured, it may not provide a clear distinction. MRI is more expensive, and physicians may h...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Disc Herniation vs. Piriformis Syndrome
Post-Surgery Care for Lumbar Disc Surgery: Recovery and Exercise Guidelines
Postoperative Care for Intervertebral Disc Surgery Hello Doctor, my father (around 50 years old) recently underwent lumbar spine surgery using a PEEK-Ardis TLIF cage to treat a herniated disc. He is currently recovering well and was able to return to work 2-3 days post-surgery. I...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
Regarding the strength of the bone graft and postoperative recovery, due to variations in surgical conditions and the amount of graft used, such questions should be directed to the orthopedic or neurosurgeon performing the surgery.[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Lumbar Disc Surgery: Recovery and Exercise Guidelines
Understanding Lower Back Pain After Heavy Lifting and Sports
Lumbar issues? I moved a lot of items weighing 58 kilograms on Saturday, and after playing baseball on Sunday, I experienced soreness in my left leg the next day. I'm unsure if it's necessary to undergo rehabilitation for my lower back.
Dr. Li Weiqiang Reply:
Dear Zhenyu, Hello, on Saturday I moved many items weighing 58 kilograms, and after pitching on Sunday, I experienced soreness the next day, particularly in my left leg. I need to determine whether this is due to overuse leading to a strain or a herniated disc in my lumbar regio...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain After Heavy Lifting and Sports
Understanding Symptoms of Herniated Discs: When to Seek Help
I would like to inquire about the symptoms of a herniated disc? First, let me describe my symptoms. I have been experiencing these issues for about seven years, but I haven't addressed them seriously. Here are my symptoms: 1. If I stay in the same position for too long or if...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
It doesn't seem like a herniated disc; you can schedule an appointment with a rehabilitation specialist or an orthopedic doctor for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Herniated Discs: When to Seek Help
Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: Questions and Insights for Patients
Cervical disc herniation Doctor, I apologize. I am patient 110670. After reading your response, I have a few questions I would like to ask you. 1. May I ask, in my situation, if I take breaks to move around for a fixed period (for example, every hour), is it still acceptable to...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
1. When studying for long periods, the relative height of the desk and chair must comply with ergonomic standards. You should not have to hunch over or lower your head to read. It is recommended to use a bookshelf, and similarly, the height of the computer monitor must be correct...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: Questions and Insights for Patients
Understanding Suspected Cervical Disc Herniation: What You Need to Know
Suspected cervical disc herniation? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions. Recently, for certain reasons (not due to physical discomfort), I underwent a self-paid MRI scan of my entire spine. The report from the doctor indicated: suspected right-sided herniation of...
Dr. Yin Xinbei Reply:
1. No. 2. Yes. 3. It is possible to engage in normal activities, but if you experience numbness, tingling, or pain in the right arm in the future, please seek medical attention from a rehabilitation specialist immediately. Additionally, avoid the action of tilting your head back ...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Cervical Disc Herniation: What You Need to Know
Understanding Sudden Left Hip Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Pain in the left mid-gluteal region? Hello Doctor, I suddenly experience sharp pain in the left side of my lower back and left buttock at certain angles. Initially, I felt weakness and soreness in my right leg when I turned it to a specific position, but that improved and now the...
Dr. Zhou Jianwen Reply:
It may be a soft tissue issue near the lumbar spine or pelvis. It is recommended to visit a rehabilitation specialist for further examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Left Hip Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Is Spinal Traction Safe for Post-Surgery Back Pain Relief?
Lumbar traction Hello Doctor, about 4-5 years ago I had surgery for a herniated disc. The pain significantly improved after the surgery, but recently I've started experiencing back pain again. I can't stand up straight, and sometimes I can't turn over while sleepin...
Dr. Li Weiqiang Reply:
Hello: Are you here to check if your lumbar spine is stable? You can consult the surgeon. If it is stable, you can start with light weights and gradually increase the load. If you experience any discomfort, stop immediately. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Li Wei-Ch...[Read More] Is Spinal Traction Safe for Post-Surgery Back Pain Relief?
Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Students
Lower back pain? I currently experience pain in the right side of my lower back whenever I sleep in a prone position. This symptom has persisted for about four years. As a student, I often take naps at school in this position, but it hasn't affected my ability to sleep signi...
Dr. Jian Jincheng Reply:
Sleeping on the right side can cause pain in the lower back, and sleeping in this position does not alleviate spinal pain. There may be a herniated disc in the spine. It is advisable to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic hospital for an examination or arrange for an MRI o...[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Students