Understanding Disc Dehydration: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Intervertebral disc dehydration Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from a herniated disc for about 5 to 6 years. Last month, I had an MRI, and the neurosurgeon said that my L5 intervertebral disc is herniated. Due to the long duration, that disc appears completely white on the ...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Generally speaking, intervertebral disc degeneration and dehydration make it easier for the disc to herniate. Once the herniated portion occurs, it is generally difficult to reposition it, even with chiropractic adjustments or rehabilitation. However, these methods can sometimes ...[Read More] Understanding Disc Dehydration: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Herniated Discs: Treatment Options and Surgery Risks
Lumbar disc herniation Hello Dr. Hsiao! I live in Macau, and my boyfriend has recently undergone an MRI, which confirmed that he has a herniated disc. He is 30 years old and experienced sudden severe lower back pain at the beginning of this year, which worsened to the point of we...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
1. Surgery may not be necessary if symptoms are mild. 2. It depends on the symptoms. 3. There are options available. 4. Microsurgery is an option, but it still carries risks. 5. If you have health insurance, the costs are not too high. 6. There is still a small percenta...[Read More] Understanding Herniated Discs: Treatment Options and Surgery Risks
Understanding Symptoms of L5-S1 Disc Herniation and Nerve Compression
L5-S1 disc herniation... may I ask a few questions? I have a herniated disc at L4-L5 and have undergone decompression surgery for a herniated and ruptured disc at L5-S1 that is compressing the nerves. Dr. Hsiao, I have recently noticed that I am completely unable to exert force w...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Have you considered surgery for the L5-S1 level? A herniated disc could potentially be causing your symptoms, but without examining the patient and reviewing imaging, I cannot make a definitive diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of L5-S1 Disc Herniation and Nerve Compression
Understanding Post-Discectomy Pain and Its Connection to Degenerative Arthritis
Inquire about issues following the implementation of spinal disc decompression surgery! I am nineteen years old. I underwent a discectomy at the age of eighteen, but recently I have been experiencing significant spinal pain. An MRI revealed that my spine is showing signs of bone ...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
It should be noted that a herniated disc is also considered a part of degeneration. Trauma or surgery can indeed accelerate the degenerative process. Maintaining the lumbar spine can involve obtaining educational materials from the hospital or searching online for posture and exe...[Read More] Understanding Post-Discectomy Pain and Its Connection to Degenerative Arthritis
Understanding Hernia Repair with Synthetic Mesh: Key Questions Answered
Hernia - Artificial Peritoneum 1. "Artificial peritoneum," often referred to as a synthetic mesh, is typically made from biocompatible materials such as polypropylene or polyester. These materials are chemically synthesized and designed to be safe for use in the human b...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Dear friend, The composition of the artificial peritoneum is polypropylene. Although it is a synthetic material, its mesh structure integrates with the body's tissues (tissue cells grow into the mesh structure, effectively encapsulating it) to achieve the purpose of repair....[Read More] Understanding Hernia Repair with Synthetic Mesh: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Post-Sleep Lower Back Discomfort: When to Seek Advanced Imaging?
Soreness in the lower back after waking up? Hello, doctor. After I wake up, I often feel soreness in my lower back, though it's not painful. This has been going on for a long time. Should I go to a major hospital for a CT scan, MRI, or other imaging studies? Which one would ...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
1. Please first consult a physician for a medical history assessment and physical examination, and it is not always necessary to immediately undergo high-tech imaging tests, as health insurance may not cover them. Additionally, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) typically costs at ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Sleep Lower Back Discomfort: When to Seek Advanced Imaging?
Understanding Disc Herniation: Challenges and Treatment Options
Herniated disc Hello, I remember experiencing pain in my right arm earlier this year. I consulted a doctor and took medication, but there was no improvement. After more than a month, I began to feel soreness in my right ankle. I returned to the hospital for some tests (X-ray, CT ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: The improvement rate after spinal disc herniation surgery is approximately 85%-90%. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to undergo an MRI examination. Medical centers should be equipped to perform endoscopic surgery.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Challenges and Treatment Options
Understanding Disc Herniation Surgery: Options, Recovery, and Laser Treatment
Intervertebral Disc Protrusion Surgery Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. Last week, I had an X-ray and MRI at the hospital. The doctor said that I have severe intervertebral disc herniation at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, which is compressing the nerves. Cu...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, if there is severe nerve compression, surgery would be an important option. In your case, it is sufficient to remove the cartilage compressing the nerve, and there is no need for a complex surgical procedure. The duration of the surgery is not as import...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation Surgery: Options, Recovery, and Laser Treatment
Understanding Post-Surgery Fluid Accumulation After Hernia Repair
Hernia Dear Dr. Wang, I would like to inquire why, after my hernia surgery (performed at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital using a synthetic mesh for repair), I am experiencing fluid accumulation that requires frequent aspiration with a syringe. Will this fluid accumulation persist i...
Dr. Wang Zhitang Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: You recently underwent hernia repair surgery using a synthetic mesh, and you are feeling troubled by the fluid accumulation in your abdominal wall post-surgery. The approach to hernia surgery has evolved; previously, the tendency was to use the surrounding tissue t...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Fluid Accumulation After Hernia Repair
Post-Hernia Surgery: Safe Exercises to Prevent Recurrence
Hernia I had hernia repair surgery about two months ago. I'm afraid of a recurrence, so I haven't done much exercise. Recently, I've noticed that my lower abdomen is getting bigger. I would like to know if it's safe to do sit-ups or push-ups after the surgery,...
Dr. Niu Zhenyuan Reply:
Dear questioner: Individuals with a larger abdomen are generally those who are over-nourished and live a life of comfort. Patients who have undergone hernia surgery should ideally rest completely. If exercise is necessary, it is best to use an abdominal binder for protection. Aft...[Read More] Post-Hernia Surgery: Safe Exercises to Prevent Recurrence
Can Nerve Damage from Cervical Disc Herniation Heal After Trauma?
Can the neurological disorders caused by cervical disc herniation due to external force impact heal? (For example, frequent numbness in the hands and feet) Same topic.
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
It depends on the type, severity, and duration of the nerve compression. It is recommended to consult a specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Can Nerve Damage from Cervical Disc Herniation Heal After Trauma?
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Lower back pain? Hello, I apologize for taking your time. I would like to ask you about a sudden onset of lower back pain I experienced a few days ago. Initially, it was just a simple ache in my lower back, but the next day I began to feel discomfort behind my knees, and later, t...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Sciatica is essentially a symptom that relies on clinical diagnosis. As for whether the cause is a herniated disc, it is certainly a possibility. The diagnostic tools commonly used are computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is also possible for sciatica ...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries and Nerve Compression Symptoms
Spinal Cord and Nerves Hello, doctor. Could you please explain the symptoms of spinal cord injury and nerve compression due to herniated discs? I previously experienced a neck injury that caused me to lose consciousness, and some of my cervical ligaments have calcified. Recently,...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Symptoms of herniated disc include: Head: numbness in the upper limbs, shooting pain, and diminished reflexes (as assessed by the physician). Lumbar region: numbness in the lower limbs, shooting pain, and diminished reflexes (as assessed by the physician). Please visit the...[Read More] Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries and Nerve Compression Symptoms
Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Is surgery always necessary for a herniated disc? One day, I suddenly experienced mild pain in my lower back, which made it difficult to exert myself while using the restroom and caused significant inconvenience during bowel movements. I took pain medication and muscle relaxants ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If a herniated disc is mild, physical therapy (rehabilitation) may be appropriate. However, as you mentioned, surgery seems necessary. Generally, the surgical options are: 1. Microsurgery 2. Endoscopic surgery, which typically involves incisions no larger than 3-4 centimet...[Read More] Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Understanding Testicular Asymmetry: Causes and Concerns
The issue of one testicle being higher than the other? At birth, there was scrotal swelling. During a follow-up at one month, it was reported to be fine. At the age of four, surgery was performed for a hernia. Currently, one testicle is positioned higher than the other. The indiv...
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
Hello: Patients with anal atresia not only have underdeveloped anal structures, but the nerves that control bowel movements may also be poorly developed, leading to an inability to effectively sense stool accumulation and to evacuate the bowels completely. So far, the most effect...[Read More] Understanding Testicular Asymmetry: Causes and Concerns
Unexplained Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Understanding Possible Causes
Unexplained gastrointestinal bloating and pain, along with swelling in the waist, abdomen, legs, and feet? Since August, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness in my lower abdomen, along with some swelling. After mid-August, I often have bloating and gas. Last Friday, I ...
Dr. He Zhenming Reply:
Hello: Hernia requires surgical treatment. Discomfort in the upper abdomen may be caused by gastritis. Swelling in both legs can occur in some women before menstruation; if kidney function is normal, it only requires observation.[Read More] Unexplained Abdominal Pain and Swelling: Understanding Possible Causes
Understanding Painful Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention
The lump is painful? Hello, doctor. I have felt a firm, elongated lump about two centimeters long at the junction of my lower abdomen and inner thigh. It is somewhat painful when pressed, but the lump seems to be immobile. I have previously undergone surgery twice for lipomas in ...
Dr. Li Junde Reply:
Hello Ms. RC: You have a hard lump in the right inguinal region that is slightly painful. Given your history of lipomas, it is possible that this could also be a lipoma; however, other possibilities such as an inguinal hernia or other tumors cannot be completely ruled out. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Painful Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-Surgery Pain Management for Cervical Spine Surgery Patients
After cervical spine surgery..? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask about my father, who is 48 years old. He underwent cervical spine surgery a little over a month ago due to degeneration and herniation of the cervical discs at levels C4, C5, and C6, which caused nerve compression...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Is the nerve pain and shooting pain in the hand present before the surgery? Sometimes, when the nerve has been under prolonged compression, even though surgery relieves the symptoms, it may take some time for complete improvement. Please continue to follow your physician's m...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain Management for Cervical Spine Surgery Patients
Can Herniated Discs Lead to Erectile Dysfunction?
Herniated disc Is it possible for a herniated disc to cause erectile dysfunction?
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
It is possible but considered a rare symptom.[Read More] Can Herniated Discs Lead to Erectile Dysfunction?
Post-Hernia Surgery Dizziness: Causes and Solutions Explained
Feeling faint after hernia surgery? Hello Doctor: Since I had hernia surgery last week, I sometimes feel dizzy and unable to walk when I stand up. It has been four days since my discharge. Why am I still experiencing this condition? Could it be related to anemia, or is there anot...
Dr. Niu Zhenyuan Reply:
Xiao Qi: Hernia surgery is not a major operation, and the blood loss is minimal, so the chance of anemia is low. One should consider the factors related to anesthesia, or it could be due to orthostatic hypotension from suddenly standing up after lying down. If you still experienc...[Read More] Post-Hernia Surgery Dizziness: Causes and Solutions Explained