Neuro Surgery & Spine

Neurology is the medical specialty focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, as well as the spinal cord, blood vessels, muscles, and nerves. These conditions are treated by physicians in two related specialties: neurology services and neurosurgery. Both professionals treat people with conditions and injuries related to the nervous system. So why is there a distinction of neurologist vs. neurosurgeon? This guide will explain the differences and similarities between the two.

According to the American Academy of Neurology, a neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of brain and nervous system conditions. Neurologists use diagnostic tests like electroencephalograms (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computer-assisted tomography (CAT) scans to identify neurological conditions. Neurologists may specialize in the treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders, learning disabilities, pain management, and other chronic conditions.

If you or a loved one has a neurological disorder that necessitates regular care, a neurologist will often be your primary health care provider. A neurologist can also treat your neurological disorder, and then advise or consult your primary care or internal medicine doctor and other physicians to help manage your overall health.