When it comes to getting the quality and comprehensive care you need, you want to meet with the most appropriate doctor for your injury or health condition. Spinal injuries and conditions require specialized treatment and care. If you are in need of surgery for a spinal injury or condition, then you may be wondering what the difference is between a spine surgeon, neurosurgeon, and orthopedic spine surgeon. When you search for neurosurgery in Jonesboro, you want to know if the doctor will be able to address your specific healthcare concerns. If you are in need of spine surgery, then the type of doctor you need will depend on the problem at hand.
What a Spine Surgeon Does
Spine surgeon is a term that refers to the doctors who perform surgery on the spine. For example, a spine surgeon may perform surgeries to address conditions like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal fusion. If you have an injury or health condition where the root cause is located in the spine, then you may need a spine surgeon. Spine injuries and conditions can also affect the limbs, especially when there is damage to nearby nerves and the nervous system. Spine surgeons typically perform surgery on the spinal column itself.
What a Neurosurgeon Does
Neurosurgeons may also perform surgery on areas of the spine but are most commonly known for surgeries that involve the brain. A neurosurgeon may also perform surgeries that impact the nervous system, including the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. Injuries to the brain may require surgical intervention, like a concussion that causes a brain bleed or skull fracture. You may also see a neurosurgeon if you require surgery for a tumor, brain infection, or stroke.
What an Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Does
Orthopedic surgeons are trained to perform surgical procedures on the musculoskeletal system, including the spine, bones, joints, muscles, and other musculoskeletal structures inside the body. Advancements in the field have also allowed orthopedic surgeons to specialize in spine surgery. An orthopedic spine surgeon will also be able to perform a wide range of surgical procedures, while also having gone through additional specialized training in spinal injuries and conditions.
The Main Differences Between These Types of Surgeons
Medical and technological advances have made it possible for surgeons to expand their areas of knowledge and expertise. For example, neurosurgeons were historically only known for brain surgery, but over the years have come to perform certain surgeries on the spinal column as well. Orthopedic surgeons have started to combine their expertise in all musculoskeletal conditions with an additional specialization in an area like spinal trauma. In addition, orthopedic spine surgeons do more than just perform invasive surgical procedures. In fact, orthopedic surgeons can utilize treatments that are non-operative and minimally invasive before resorting to surgery.
When to See a Spine Surgeon
Your brain and spine are vital to your body’s ability to function, so you want to trust your health and wellness to a knowledgeable and skilled team who can help you. If you have been going through treatment for a brain or spine condition and are not experiencing relief, then your doctor may recommend you speak with a spine surgeon to learn more about your surgical options. Here are a few examples of when a spine surgeon or neurosurgeon may be beneficial to you. In case you are wondering about physiotherapy vs. physical therapy and which one to opt for better treatment
Traumatic Brain Injury
Head injuries should be taken very seriously and addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible. If you suffer a blow to the head from a car accident, fall, or sports injury, then visit a doctor right away. In addition to pain and bruising, you may experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, confusion, or even loss of consciousness. These may be signs that you have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Spinal Cord Injury
An injury to your spinal cord can negatively impact your healthy functioning and mobility for the rest of your life if it is not addressed promptly. Damage to the spinal cord can cause pain and neurological symptoms if nearby nerves are compressed or damaged. Neuro spine specialists will be able to accurately diagnose your spinal cord injury and discuss your best options going forward.
Degenerative Disease
Degenerative disease in the spine can cause individual vertebrae to rub against one another, causing painful bone-on-bone symptoms. Degenerative diseases can impact your healthy functioning and range of motion in your neck and back.
Visit AICA Orthopedics and find out about our neurosurgery in Jonesboro near you. Our team of spine surgeons will work together to provide you with the quality, comprehensive care you need.