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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get rid of lower back pain?

There are many reasons for back pain, and even more ways to "rid" yourself of back pain, according to the internet. There is some common sense advice out there, like strengthening and stretching your back or keeping a good posture. That is good advice regardless of back pain, but if you are in pain, call your doctor. Keep a journal of your pain, when and where it hurts and how your pain changes over time, this will help the doctor identify the problem quickly.

What are the causes of back pain?

There are many reasons for back pain, and even more ways to "rid" yourself of back pain, according to the internet. There is some common sense advice out there, like strengthening and stretching your back or keeping a good posture. That is good advice regardless of back pain, but if you are in pain, call your doctor. Keep a journal of your pain, when and where it hurts and how your pain changes over time, this will help the doctor identify the problem quickly.

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain is a common complaint. Neck muscles can be strained from poor posture — whether it's leaning over your computer or hunching over your workbench. Osteoarthritis is a common cause of neck pain. Neck pain can be a symptom of a more serious problem.
Call your doctor if your neck pain is accompanied by numbness or loss of strength in your arms or hands or if you have shooting pain into your shoulder or down your arm.

What is the difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon?

A neurologist and a neurosurgeon have similarities, however, a neurosurgeon can give a surgical solution to neurologic disorders, while the neurologist identifies neurological disorders through diagnostic testing and treats with medical means.

Why should I choose a neurosurgeon?

Neurosurgeons perform brain surgery and the highest level of expertise in spine disorder treatment. The majority of operations performed by neurosurgeons are spine surgeries. Neurosurgeons are exclusively trained to perform procedures on the entire spine. Typically, neurosurgeons are physicians who have met educational requirements that include four years of college, four years of medical school, one-year of general surgical internship and six to seven years as a neurosurgical resident.

Neurosurgeon:   
Diagnoses and treats surgical disorders or injuries of the nervous system.   
Performs an examination of the neurological structure of the body the brain, spinal cord and nerves.
Neurosurgeons can use radiosurgery which treats brain abnormalities, tumors or other disorders with a delivery of a single high dose of radiation.

What does Board Certified mean?

Once residency is over, neurosurgeons might seek certification in the practice of neurosurgery through the American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS). A board certified neurosurgeon, also known as a Diplomate of the American Board of Neurological Surgery, is the highest level of neurosurgical qualification in the United States.

Why do I need to see a neurosurgeon?

You may need to see a neurosurgeon if your primary care physician thinks your symptoms are neurological and might require surgery. Your primary care physician will seek a neurosurgeon and schedule an appointment for an exam and tests, if necessary. Once these tests and exams are finished, the neurosurgeon will work with you toward a plan of care and to schedule surgery.

I have been referred to a neurosurgeon. Does that mean I need surgery?

No. Many of the conditions treated can be managed without surgery, at least initially. If surgery is recommended, the risks and goals of the procedure will be discussed thoroughly with you by your doctor as well as alternative treatments.

 How long will it take to get an appointment?

Typically, new patient appointments can be made within one week to 10-days.

How many hours is brain surgery?

It could take up to three to five hours if you are having regular craniotomy.

 Can I live a normal life after brain surgery?

Some people recover well after brain surgery, but this can take some time. Other people have some problems or long term difficulties. The problems may depend on the area of the brain where the tumor was.  Some people may complete recovery in a few weeks or months, others will have to learn to adjust to permanent changes in their life.

Why am I having so many headaches and feeling such pain every day?

If you are experiencing uncontrolled headaches and unexplained symptoms related to your brain or nervous system, it may be time to contact your doctor who may recommend a neurological exam with a specialist.

What does it mean that I am having difficulty walking, and feeling very confused? This has never happened to me before!

When your pain becomes chronic or you feel dizzy or are having difficulty keeping your balance, it could be a sign of something more serious. If you are having trouble walking, find yourself shuffling your feet, experiencing tremors or unintentional jerks, it could be a sign of a nervous system problem.

Why can’t I remember things anymore?
Why do I feel a numbness and tingling sensation?

These are all good reasons to contact your physician who may refer you to a neurologist. The signs and symptoms of nervous system disorders include:
·      Constant or a sudden headache.
·      A headache that changes or is different.
·      Loss of feeling or tingling.
·      Weakness or loss of muscle strength.
·      Loss of sight or double vision.
·      Memory loss.
·      Impaired mental ability.
·      Lack of coordination.

If you are experiencing these symptoms without relief, please contact your doctor who will most likely perform a neurological exam to check your vision, hearing and balance. Your doctor may also get images of your brain to help make a diagnosis.

How can a neurologist identify the cause of my pain?

A neurologist can search for the cause of symptoms for both common and complex neurological conditions by giving you a neurological exam. During this exam, the neurologist will use various instruments to assess the nervous system such as lights, reflex hammers, motor skills, balance, and tests for coordination and mental status.