Can a neurologist help me?

Posted , 4 users are following.

Hi. I have 3 slipped disks which cause tingling, burning and numbness down my right leg and in my right hip. I am already under the pain clinic and have had physio. Is it worth my seeing a neurologist/can they help me or is that only if I had MS or Parkinson's?

Any views or knowledge on what a neurologist could do doe me are most welcome. Thank you.

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Posted

    You need a neuroSURGEON, not a neurologist.  Usually an MRI first and then maybe a CT/Myelogram with contrast...the "gold standard" of spine tests.  This gives the docs a complete "map" of your spine.  If you need surgery, they will tell you why.  If you don't, they will recommend a course of treatment.  See the experts...get the tests...find the ACTUAL CAUSE of your pain...get it fixed.

  • Posted

    A Neurologist might be a good step.  But maybe keep in mind that a neurosurgeon might be recommended also.  A surgical consult is something else to keep in mind.  Talk to your pain mgmt. for some advice.

    a neurologist might recommend a Ct scan or even an MRI.  I know a neurosurgeon definitely would.

    Wishing you good luck and you get some answers.

    Dee

    • Posted

      I've already had an MRI which confirms I have 3 slipped disks so do you think seeing a neurologist is just a waste of time or will the neurologist be able to refer me to surgeon or for a contrast MRI scan?

    • Posted

      Yes the neuro can refer you to a neurosurgeon.  Or go directly to the neurosurgeon.
    • Posted

      Go see the neurosurgeon.  He'll/she'll take it from here.  The MRI may be enough to determine your treatment plan.  I just had an LLIF for L2/L3 stenosis (on top of an L3-S1 fusion over 2 years ago).  They do the CT/M only when they need it...like in my case.  They have to be very exact with a LATERAL fusion...from your side, not back (cute pic attached).  No idea what the neuro will recommend.  

    • Posted

      Thank you for your reply (and everyone else's). Can my GP refer me straight to a neurosurgeon or should I see the neurologist to get the referral? (This is via the nhs by the way)

  • Posted

    No u have every right to see a neurosurgeon. I found going to my GP And breaking down because that s how far my health has grounded me. I asked to be sent to a neurosurgeon at a private hospital via the nhs and my doctor was ok let's do that . So far the neurosurgeon has been great and am scheduled for my operation at the end of the month at the private hospital. Via the nhs. It's took 7 months of tests and alternative treatment. To get to this stage.

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.