Do you suffer from a neurological disorder? Has your primary care physician referred you to a neurologist? Do you think you are suffering from a neurological disorder? Neurologists and neurosurgeons are medically certified to diagnose and treat conditions of the spine, brain, and nervous system. Depending on the severity of your condition, neurologists and neurosurgeons will suggest either noninvasive or invasive treatment options.
What Are Some Common Neurological Disorders?
A neurologist may treat the following common neurological disorders:
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Tremors
- Peripheral nerve disorders
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Epilepsy
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Sleep disorders
A team of neurologists will determine if your signs and symptoms are a neurological issue, or if they are caused by another imbalance. Neurologists have extensive training in the conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system to properly diagnose. Your primary care physician may refer you to a neurologist to confirm their suspected diagnosis.
What Is the Difference Between a Neurologist and a Neurosurgeon?
Neurologists and neurosurgeons are medically trained to perform complex neurological testing, diagnose neurological disorders, and treat neurological conditions. There is a great overlap between the two fields. The biggest difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon is that a neurosurgeon can perform surgery, while a neurologist cannot. A neurologist focuses on using noninvasive treatments such as therapy and medication administration. A neurosurgeon focuses on using surgery to treat patients. So how do you know whether to see a neurologist or neurosurgeon? Your primary care or general physician will refer you to a neurologist or neurosurgeon based on your current condition.
What Do Neurosurgeons Commonly Treat?
Neurosurgeons will treat various neurological issues through invasive surgery and a patient-centred treatment plan. Neurosurgeons will perform surgeries for those suffering from:
- Aneurysms
- Clogged or blocked arteries
- Tumors in the brain
- Chronic back pain
- Birth defects
- Spine and brain aneurysms
Through a thorough examination, neurologists will determine if you need to be referred to a neurosurgeon for neuro surgery or another noninvasive treatment.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure neurosurgeons use to treat partial paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, and relieve symptoms of depression. Neurologists utilise magnets to stimulate your brain. While they are not effective for some patients, research shows TMS can improve the health of those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease by improving their motor symptoms.
What Is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS)?
Transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation treatment. TDCS is painless. Neurologists use electric currents to stimulate parts of your brain. A low-intensity electric current is passed continuously to stimulate your brain. Cathodal TDCS slows and reduces neuronal activity. Opposingly, anodal TDCS excites your neuronal activity. TCDS is one of the more inexpensive neurological treatments.
