The human brain and the nervous system are not only critical to our health but also very delicate. The branch of medicine that deals with this area is called neurology. In neurology, there are two types of medical professionals who perform specific neurology-related services for different conditions: neurologists and neurosurgeons.
There is a distinction between a neurosurgeon and a neurologist. While they may sound alike, there are critical differences between the services they offer. Let’s take a look at what these differences are, so you can consult the right specialist for your ailments, when necessary.
Key Differences Between Neurosurgeons and Neurologists
Neurologists primarily specialize in identifying neurological conditions. They diagnose, treat, and manage brain and nervous system disorders and injuries. They also perform medical and diagnostic tests like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer-assisted tomography (CAT) scans, tests that aid in identifying neurological conditions.
Most of the time, neurologists are dedicated to determining specific neurological conditions through their diagnostic tests. These conditions are typically corrected through medication or therapy. They do not perform surgeries on patients experiencing neurological problems. Because of this, they often refer patients to neurosurgeons for treatment.
Neurosurgeons, on the other hand, perform diagnosis and treatments through surgical and nonsurgical means. Treatment and diagnosis depend on the type of condition or the injury inflicted. Neurosurgeons diagnose all types of issues and can treat you through nonsurgical and surgical means.
Conditions Treated by Neurosurgeons and Neurologists
Some neurological disorders require long-term care. Neurologists are qualified to provide such care. They typically treat disorders like headaches, muscle tremors, sleep disorders, and epilepsy. Neurologists also deal with more severe and long-term conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. Brain and spinal cord injuries are also addressed and treated by neurologists.
Typically, neurosurgeons treat conditions related to brain and spine trauma like aneurysms and tumors in the brain or spinal cord. However, they are also qualified to treat conditions that neurologists treat. When people have back pain, neck pain, herniated discs, or degenerative diseases of the spine, they are referred to neurosurgeons for treatment. They perform surgeries, like the removal of a tumor in the brain or spine and removal of blockages that could cause a stroke. They also treat brain or spinal cord issues caused by injuries.
The nervous system extends from the brain to the nerves, so neurosurgeons also deal with conditions present in the other parts of the body. The source of these conditions is usually a problem in the central nervous system, which makes it a concern for a neurosurgeon.
Do Neurosurgeons and Neurologists Work Together?
Because of the nature of their work, neurosurgeons and neurologists often offer services that overlap. Both neurologists and neurosurgeons are also qualified to administer non-invasive procedures concerning mild brain and spinal conditions. In a lot of cases, a patient may see a neurosurgeon for surgery, followed by regular visits to a neurologist for further treatment. Sometimes, neurologists and neurosurgeons work together to offer complete and effective treatment to patients.
Neurosurgeon in Colorado
If you suffer from a brain or spinal condition, disease, or injury, see a qualified neurosurgeon today. The board-certified neurosurgeons at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery are experts in the field and can help you find relief from your brain or spinal health issues.
For your convenience, we offer services in three offices. To make an appointment, please call us at (303) 790-1800, and let’s work together to find the best treatment for you. You can also request an appointment online.
