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.
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.
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
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?
Yes the neuro can refer you to a neurosurgeon. Or go directly to the neurosurgeon.
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.
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.
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)
Yes yr GP can refer u .