What Does a Neurologist Do and When Should You See One?

Many patients find navigating neurological care to be a journey of discovery and support. Terms like neurology, neurologist and neurosurgeon mean very different things. Understanding these roles can help you find the right care for your condition.

What is neurology?

Neurology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the anatomy, function and disorders of the nervous system. Neurologists diagnose and treat conditions that affect how the nervous system works, often without surgery.

What is the nervous system?

The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord and a network of nerves throughout the body. It controls movement, thoughts, sensations, physical responses and basic life functions. The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord.

• The brain controls how we think, feel, learn, remember and move.

• The spinal cord delivers messages between the brain and the rest of the body.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The peripheral nervous system includes the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It sends information between the body and the brain through two pathways:

• Autonomic nervous system – Controls automatic functions such as heart rate, blood pressure and digestion.

• Somatic nervous system – Controls voluntary movement and muscle activity, as well as sensory input like touch, taste, smell and hearing.

What is a neurologist?

A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system. Neurologists do not perform surgery, but they manage conditions through medications, lifestyle changes, rehabilitation and other non-surgical treatments.

What does a neurologist do?

Neurologists evaluate symptoms, perform neurological exams, order diagnostic testing, and develop treatment plans for nervous system disorders. They often manage chronic or complex conditions over time.

Common conditions treated by neurologists include:

• Headaches and migraines

• Radiculopathy (pinched nerves)

• Neuropathy (nerve damage, often in the hands or feet)

• Stroke

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Walking and gait disorders

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis

• Neuromuscular diseases, such as ALS

• Seizure disorders

• Neurocognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease

What is the difference between a neurologist and a neurosurgeon?

While both specialists treat conditions of the nervous system, their roles are different:

• Neurologists diagnose and treat neurological conditions without surgery.

• Neurosurgeons treat neurological conditions that require surgical intervention.

In many cases, neurologists and neurosurgeons work together. A neurologist may diagnose a condition and manage non-surgical care, while a neurosurgeon performs surgery if needed.

What conditions does a neurosurgeon treat?

Common conditions treated by neurosurgeons include:

• Brain tumors

• Chronic neck or back pain

• Herniated discs

• Sciatica

• Spinal stenosis -The narrowing of spaces within the spine

• Spinal fractures

• Spinal tumors

• Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis or spondylolisthesis – Conditions where the spine is not shaped or aligned normally.

• Traumatic brain, head neck or spine injuries

What are the different types of neurologists?

Many neurologists have additional training in subspecialties to focus on specific conditions or patient populations. Common specialties neurologists focus on include:

• Clinical neurophysiology – Focuses on disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems and electrical activity in the brain, spinal cord and muscles

• Vascular neurology – Specializes in conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord; often referred to as stroke specialists

• Neuromuscular neurology – Treats disorders affecting nerves and muscles, such as multiple sclerosis and ALS

• Neurocritical care – Manages severe neurological illness and injury, including major strokes, traumatic brain injuries and meningitis

• Neuro-oncology – Focuses on cancerous tumors of the brain and nervous system

• Pediatric neurology – Cares for infants, children and young adults with neurological disorders, addressing conditions unique to growing and developing nervous systems.

When should you see a neurologist?

You may be referred to a neurologist if you experience symptoms affecting your brain, nerves or muscles. Common reasons to see a neurologist include:

• Recurring headaches or migraines

• Dizziness

• Numbness, tingling or weakness

• Trouble with movement, balance or coordination

• Memory problems or confusion

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s often best to start by talking with your primary care provider, who can determine whether a neurology referral is appropriate.

What can you expect at a neurologist appointment?

For many patients, a neurological condition is not the first diagnosis. Your care team will begin with a complete review of your medical history and symptoms to identify potential causes, including underlying or genetic conditions.

During a neurological exam, the neurologist or advanced practice provider will assess:

• Mental status and memory

• Vision, hearing, smell and speech

• Muscle strength and control

• Coordination and reflexes

• Sensation and balance

• Walking and gait patterns

This evaluation helps determine whether a problem exists within the nervous system and guides further testing or treatment.

What are some common tests ordered by a neurologist?

Additional testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis or guide treatment, including:

• CT scans

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

• Electroencephalography (EEG)

• Electromyography (EMG)

Understanding what a neurologist does and when to seek care can help you take an active role in your health. Neurological symptoms may differ from person to person, and early evaluation can play an important role in effective care. If you’re experiencing ongoing or unexplained symptoms involving your brain, nerves or muscles, working with your primary care provider to determine whether a neurologist is right for you is an important first step toward clarity and care.

Learn more about neurology at Ochsner Health