(Newswire.net — August 8, 2023) — If you’ve been in an accident or you’re having neurological symptoms, you may need to see a neurosurgeon. It might sound intimidating, but there are many reasons why you’d need to see this type of medical specialist.
You should never put off an appointment with a neurosurgeon following an accident or injury. In fact, if you have ongoing severe pain in your back or neck, feel weak or numb in your limbs, or have coordination and balance issues, you should see one as soon as possible.
Neurosurgeons treat brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and various other neurological conditions. However, the misconceptions you may have about these medical professionals may be keeping you from making that appointment.
Here are the most common myths about neurosurgery.
Myth: Neurosurgeons Only Perform Surgery
With “surgeon” in the title, it’s reasonable to think that all a neurosurgeon does is perform surgery. However, not every visit to a neurosurgeon will require that you get on the operating table.
A neurosurgeon can diagnose and treat all kinds of neurological problems. Surgery is often the last resort, as neurosurgeons will try other treatment options first. Yes, they can perform neurosurgery when needed, which is beneficial if there are no other viable options for your treatment.
Myth: Neurosurgeons Only Work on The Brain
While neurosurgeons do work on the brain, that is not the extent of what they can do. They also work on problems with the spine and spinal cord. Many people are surprised to learn that other surgeons operate on the spine. If you need that kind of surgery, you will want a neurosurgeon because they have the most experience.
Myth: Neurosurgery Involves Invasive Procedures
There likely isn’t a person on the planet who looks forward to surgical procedures. It doesn’t help that medical dramas make them look frightening. Neurosurgery does involve some invasive procedures, but not all of them.
In many cases, the incisions are small, or there are none at all. Neurosurgeons are capable of performing extensive surgeries with larger incisions and longer patient recovery, but mostly, they will do everything they can to avoid it. If you need a major procedure, you can rest assured that you’ll be in good hands with a neurosurgeon.
Do I Need Neurosurgery?
The only way to know if you need to get neurosurgery is to have a consultation with a neurosurgeon. While that may seem intimidating, do you want to endure the symptoms for the rest of your life?
Keep in mind that your neurosurgeon will typically have other treatment plans that can help you feel better without going under the knife. Without an evaluation, it’s impossible to know.
After a consultation, you should get a better idea of what your treatment plan looks like. Click to find out more about what a neurosurgeon can do for you.