Understanding Risks and Long-Term Effects of L5-S1 Spine Surgery
Risks and complications of L5-S1 spinal surgery? I was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis due to numbness in my legs. An MRI revealed a herniated disc, which the doctor said is mild; however, I experience daily numbness below the knees and a burning sensation. I have undergone phys...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Since I have not personally reviewed your information, the following suggestions are for reference only. If there is spondylolisthesis, it is generally due to degeneration of the spine leading to joint instability, which typically requires surgical intervention for stabilization....[Read More] Understanding Risks and Long-Term Effects of L5-S1 Spine Surgery
Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery Tips
Herniated disc Hello, doctor. I have a few questions to ask. Last March, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc, and after undergoing traction therapy, I improved. However, it recurred in May of this year. I am currently receiving traction therapy again and have also consulted a t...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Your symptoms appear to indicate a herniated disc. We will need to wait for the results of your MRI before making further recommendations. Wearing a brace may provide some assistance, but be mindful of how you use it. You can look for the suggestions I have written in the past. W...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery Tips
Understanding Post-Surgery Recovery for Herniated Discs: Is Traction Effective?
I have a herniated disc problem? Hello, three years ago I had a herniated disc at the L4 and L5 levels that was compressing a nerve, causing numbness in my left calf. Three months ago, the doctor performed surgery to remove the herniated disc. Although the surgery has been comple...
Dr. Xie Bojun Reply:
Based on your inquiry, the issues you are currently facing are post-surgical lower back pain and numbness in your left calf. The purpose of the discectomy is to relieve nerve compression, so symptoms of nerve pain should improve after the surgery. However, the stability of the sp...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Recovery for Herniated Discs: Is Traction Effective?
Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness from L4-L5 Disc Herniation
There is a herniated disc issue at the L4 and L5 levels? Hello, three years ago I had a herniated disc at the L4 and L5 levels that was compressing a nerve, causing numbness in my left calf. Three months ago, the doctor performed surgery to remove the herniated disc. Although the...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, regarding your symptoms after surgery. Since I am not familiar with your specific situation, the following suggestions are for reference only. Generally speaking, if there is an acute herniated disc with nerve root compression, surgery can be performed for decompression. H...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness from L4-L5 Disc Herniation
Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal
Postoperative complications of disc surgery? Hello, doctor. I previously asked you about related issues. After my discectomy on May 31, I experienced pain at the incision site, and I was concerned about nerve adhesion. At that time, you mentioned that nerve adhesion does not occu...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, the internet is not a suitable place for diagnosing your condition. Without an in-person examination, we cannot determine your actual problem. Additionally, it seems you did not follow the previous recommendations. We suggest that you rest properly by lying flat and consul...[Read More] Post-Surgery Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms After Disc Removal
Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at L3 Level Explained
Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at the L3 Level Hello Dr. Cheng, Three years ago, I underwent a discectomy for a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level, during which a titanium alloy cage was implanted and fusion was performed. Recently, I had an MRI two weeks ago that re...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Herniated discs at the L3-L4 level rarely cause paralysis due to nerve root or cauda equina compression. To avoid further surgery, it is essential to strengthen your abdominal and back muscles to reduce spinal strain. Please consult a rehabilitation specialist for further guidanc...[Read More] Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation at L3 Level Explained
Post-Discectomy Care: Managing Pain and Recovery Timeline
Postoperative Care and Complications After Discectomy I just had a discectomy on May 31 and have returned home to rest. Besides showering and sleeping, I wear a lumbar support brace. The doctor said that I did not have any artificial titanium metal or support structures implanted...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, it is normal to experience pain at the surgical site after surgery. However, if the pain persists, it may be necessary to consider the possibility of an infection. Nerve adhesions typically do not occur immediately after surgery. For my patients, I stil...[Read More] Post-Discectomy Care: Managing Pain and Recovery Timeline
Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Damage, and Disability Benefits
Herniated disc Hello Doctor: Nine years ago, I had a herniated disc at L4/L5/S1 that compressed my nerves, resulting in loss of sensation and inability to walk in my left leg. This month, I returned to the surgeon for electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, which sho...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Hello: If there is already atrophy in the calf before the surgery, it may not fully recover after the surgery. You can apply for a disability certificate only if the affected area impacts the mobility of the lower limb joints. Please provide your full name, ID number, and address...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Nerve Damage, and Disability Benefits
Understanding Ultrasound Findings: Bright Spots on Testes in Children
Ultrasound examination revealed multiple echogenic foci in the testis? Dear Dr. Huang, Thank you for taking the time to respond amidst your busy schedule. I would like to inquire about my first-grade child, who was found to possibly have a hernia during a school health check. An...
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
The presence of bright spots on ultrasound indicates that the tissue has a stronger acoustic reflection. In the case of a 7-year-old boy's testicular tissue, a common reason for this is underdeveloped testicular tissue, which is denser compared to other tissues and reflects ...[Read More] Understanding Ultrasound Findings: Bright Spots on Testes in Children
Is Surgery the Only Option for Lumbar Disc Issues? Expert Advice Needed
Hello, Dr. Cheng! Dear Dr. Cheng, After my consultation, the doctor informed me that my lumbar spine at the L4-L5 levels shows dark areas on the MRI and recommended surgery. Is there truly no other option available, and is surgery the only way forward? My symptoms include occasi...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
An MRI showing a dark intervertebral disc indicates decreased water content and reduced elasticity. This does not necessarily mean that surgery is required. Generally, it is important to assess whether the disc is herniated and compressing the nerve, and if conservative treatment...[Read More] Is Surgery the Only Option for Lumbar Disc Issues? Expert Advice Needed
Safe Weight Limits for Women to Prevent Lumbar Disc Herniation
Lifting heavy objects Doctors recommend that women should avoid lifting heavy objects to prevent lumbar disc herniation. The general guideline is to limit lifting to no more than 10 kilograms (approximately 22 pounds). Thank you.
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
It is advisable to lift heavy objects that do not exceed one-fifth of your body weight. Importantly, the method of lifting is crucial; do not bend at the waist when lifting. Keep your back straight.[Read More] Safe Weight Limits for Women to Prevent Lumbar Disc Herniation
Understanding Dynamic Stabilization Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation
Could you please provide more details about the specific questions you have regarding Dr. Dennis's non-fusion system fixation surgery? Hello Doctor, today I took my family member to see a doctor for a herniated lumbar disc. After reviewing the MRI, the doctor said surgery is...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
The surgery itself is very safe, and endoscopic surgery is also a safe procedure. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Dynamic Stabilization Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation
Understanding Recurrence Rates After Lumbar Disc Surgery: A 10% Risk Explained
Recurrence rate The 10% recurrence rate after lumbar disc herniation surgery refers to the likelihood of recurrence within a certain number of years following the procedure, rather than over a lifetime. Thank you.
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
The recurrence rate of lumbar disc herniation is very low. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Recurrence Rates After Lumbar Disc Surgery: A 10% Risk Explained
Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: Symptoms Beyond Neck Pain
Cervical vertebrae Is it possible to have a cervical disc herniation without experiencing neck and shoulder pain, but occasionally feeling numbness in the arms and mild pain in the upper back area? Thank you.
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Cervical disc herniation can cause different symptoms depending on the location of nerve compression, but it is often accompanied by discomfort in the shoulders and neck, as well as numbness in the arms or hands. Sometimes, this may be due to peripheral neuropathy rather than cer...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Disc Herniation: Symptoms Beyond Neck Pain
Post-Operative Nerve Symptoms: Is It Normal After Lumbar Surgery?
Postoperative Is it normal to still feel tightness and mild numbness in different areas of my limbs (including hands) one and a half months after undergoing microdiscectomy for lumbar disc herniation? Thank you.
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Lumbar spine surgery should not be related to hand numbness. There is still a 10% chance of recurrence (reherniation) after lumbar microdiscectomy. It is recommended to return to the outpatient clinic to consult with the surgeon for further evaluation.[Read More] Post-Operative Nerve Symptoms: Is It Normal After Lumbar Surgery?
Understanding Left Coccyx Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Pain in the left coccyx may occur intermittently? Sometimes, even without engaging in strenuous exercise, I suddenly experience pain on the left side of my coccyx (only when I move that area of muscle). This started in July, but the pain is quite intense, often not hurting for ju...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin, Hello. 1. The term "ruptured disc" likely refers to a herniated disc, which can compress a nerve on one side, resulting in unilateral pain. It is important to maintain proper posture and consider using a supportive lumbar brace; however, there is no qui...[Read More] Understanding Left Coccyx Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Gastrostomy: Key Considerations and Care Tips
Gastrostomy What is a gastrostomy, and what precautions should be taken?
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
Typically, when we eat, food enters through the mouth, travels down the esophagus, and is digested in the stomach, with nutrients absorbed in the intestines. However, if someone is unable to chew or swallow due to various reasons, such as severe facial trauma or a tumor obstructi...[Read More] Understanding Gastrostomy: Key Considerations and Care Tips
Long-Term Use of Hemorrhoid Medication: Risks and Concerns
Hemorrhoids Hello, Doctor: My father is 58 years old. He had surgery for a hernia in the past, and since then, he has been experiencing issues with hemorrhoids. He often has bleeding due to consuming overly rich foods, and he has taken many medications to manage it. Currently, he...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. Based on your explanation, it is not possible to accurately diagnose whether it is a fistula. Please seek treatment from a nearby colorectal specialist as soon as possible. 2. Without the name and ingredients of the medication, it is difficult to understand whether it may cau...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Hemorrhoid Medication: Risks and Concerns
Understanding Post-Surgery Pain After Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Herniated disc It is normal to experience intermittent soreness after a herniated disc surgery, especially if the pain is not localized to one specific area. This can occur as the body heals and adjusts post-surgery. The duration of soreness can vary widely among individuals, but...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Postoperative pain should improve within about a month. If it persists, please visit the outpatient clinic for an examination. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Pain After Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Differences Between Dynamic and Stabilization Techniques in Spine Surgery
The difference between dynamic and stabilization refers to two distinct concepts in various fields, including medicine and physical therapy. Dynamic typically refers to processes or movements that are characterized by change, activity, or progress. In a Hello Director Zheng: I ...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Dynamic Stabilization is a type of dynamic stabilization system that can maintain spinal mobility while supporting the height of the intervertebral discs, thereby reducing the recurrence rate of disc herniation and the degeneration of adjacent joints. Currently, two methods appro...[Read More] Differences Between Dynamic and Stabilization Techniques in Spine Surgery