Author Archives: Dr. Li

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About Dr. Li

I am a professional surgeon based in Beijing, China.

Main Symptoms of Spinal Vascular Diseases

Spinal vascular diseases are problems with the blood vessels that feed or drain the spinal cord. When a vessel clogs, bursts, or tangles, the cord gets starved or soaked, and the body sends out alarms that can start in minutes or sneak in over months. The first alarm is usually pain that feels like a knife in the back. It hits in one spot—most often mid-back or lower neck—and shoots down the ribs, belly, or legs. Unlike ordinary back strain, this pain is worst at rest and may wake you from deep sleep. Next come weak or “lazy” legs. A... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Spinal Cord Vascular Malformations

Spinal cord vascular malformations are tangles of extra blood vessels inside or around the spinal cord that short-circuit normal blood flow. Because the cord needs steady oxygen, even a small traffic jam of arteries and veins can start a chain of warning signs that come and go at first, then settle in for good. Sudden back pain is the headline symptom. Patients often describe a sharp, electric jolt that starts between the shoulder blades or low in the neck and shoots down an arm or leg. The pain peaks within seconds, fades over minutes, and may return weeks later with... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Tethered Cord Syndrome

Tethered cord syndrome happens when the spinal cord is pulled tight like a rubber band at the lower end. Instead of hanging loose and moving freely with growth, it stays stuck to the bottom of the spinal canal. Over months or years the steady tug damages nerves and shows up in everyday ways. Back pain is the first red flag most families notice. A child who used to sit on the floor now wants to stand after five minutes, or a teen complains of a dull ache right above the tail-bone that gets worse during sports. The pain often feels... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect in which part of the spinal column does not close completely. The signs range from barely visible skin changes to major nerve and movement problems, depending on the type and location. A dimple, patch of hair, or fatty lump at the base of the spine is often the first clue found during a newborn exam. These marks sit directly over the open segment. When the spinal cord is pulled or exposed, leg weakness shows up early. One foot may drag, ankles turn inward, or hips refuse to stay in place. Bladder control is weak.... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Epidural Hematoma

An epidural hematoma is a fast-growing blood clot between the skull and the outer brain lining. It usually follows a direct blow to the head that may seem minor at first, so early clues are easy to miss. The classic start is a brief blackout, followed by a “lucid interval.” The person wakes up, talks normally, then drifts downhill again within minutes to hours. Headache ramps up quickly. It feels like a drum pounding on one side and gets worse with every heartbeat. Nausea and vomiting come on fast, often with little warning. The sick feeling does not ease after... Learn more