A neurologist is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system. A neurologist’s educational background and medical training includes an undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, a one-year internship, and three years of specialized training. Many neurologists also have additional training in one area of neurology such as stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders or movement disorders.

Neurologists are principal care providers or consultants to other physicians. When a patient has a neurological disorder that requires frequent care, a neurologist is often the principal care provider. Patients with disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or multiple sclerosis may use a neurologist as their principal care physician. In a consulting role, a neurologist will diagnose and treat a neurological disorder and then advise the primary care physician managing the patient’s overall health. For example, a neurologist would act in a consulting role for conditions such as stroke, concussion, or headache.

Neurologists treat disorders of the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles.Common Neurological Disorders are:

• Stroke

• Alzheimer’s Disease

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Epilepsy

• Parkinson’s Disease

• Sleep Disorders

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Tremor

• Neck & Back Pain

• Brain Tumors

• Peripheral Nerve Disorders

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Many neurological disorders can be treated. Treatment or symptomatic relief is different for each condition. To find treatment options, neurologists will perform and interpret tests of the brain or nervous system. Treatment can help patients with neurological disorders maintain the best possible quality of life.

During a neurological examination, the neurologist reviews the patient’s health history with special attention to the current condition. The patient then takes a neurological exam. Typically the exam tests vision, strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. This information helps the neurologist determine if the problem is in the nervous system. Further tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis or to find a specific treatment.