I have noticed that some people on here go to a neurologist for disc problems. I did not know that that was part of their specialty. I have a neurologist but for migraine headaches. Maybe if I keep having problems I should go see him. I seem to be doing better all of the time but if it starts going the other way. What does a neurologist do for disc problems? Can they give cortizone shots?

My gp debated whether to send me to an ortho or neuro surgeon. He opted for the neurosurgeon because of the nerve compression in my case.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I had once asked my internest as to whether an orthopedist or a neurosurgeon should be used. He said sometimes it's a fine line as to which one to use. Question I think should be considered is if there is any nerve involvement in surgery. Then maybe a neurosurgeon may win out as who to use. I've had several surgeries and have had both an orthopedic surgeron for some of the surgeries and neurosurgeon for the others. It was evaluated on a case by case with me as to who to use. Hope this answers your questions. Hope you have a pain free day.....Allan :D

My lower back is what was hurt recently so I would think that would not effect migraines but I don't really know for sure. I have not had an increase in headaches. Actually since I hurt my back I have not had one headache at all because I take pain pills every day. I only take two aspirin during the day and then one Voltaren at night. I am still doing good today so hopefully it keeps going this way. It probably will unless I do something to strain it. I was thinking of getting one of those Swiss balls. They are supposed to be good for back injuries. I am afraid though since I am feeling not so bad now and if I did something on one of those to make things worse I would just kick myself. So many people I know keep telling me that they swear by them. They not only exercise the muscles but are supposed to increase circulation to the spine and stretch it. It's something that is used in physical therapy.

I think it does depend on what kind of pain you are experiencing.

If your pain is acute, then an ortho may be the best bet.

If you have the achy, tinging pain, then a neuro may be the best bet.

I'm visiting the Virginia Spine Institute, they specialize in spinal problem, sports/trauma treatment, and have a neuro on staff. Maybe you could find a facility with both!

It's the achy tingling pain. It was acute about 4 weeks ago. I am past that stage now. I think I will wait it out and if it starts to get worse again then go see the neurologist.

Is a Neurosurgeon the same thing as a Neurologist?

No! A neurologist only does diagnostics. It was a neurologist who sent me to an orthopedic spine specialist. He knew none of the local neurosurgeons were spine specialists.
fly