Consultation with
a Neurosurgeon

Many patients are unsure whom to consult when experiencing back pain, limb numbness, or headaches. A neurosurgeon specialises in cases where conservative treatment is no longer effective or when surgery may be required such as in disc herniation, spinal stenosis, tumours, or injuries to the spine or brain. If your MRI or CT scan suggests one of these conditions, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon.

Recovery time depends on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s overall condition. After minimally invasive procedures, patients often begin moving the same day, with full recovery taking 2 to 6 weeks. More complex operations may require longer recovery and physiotherapy. A personalised recovery plan is created for each patient.

Surgery is not the first step. In most cases, treatment begins with medication, physiotherapy, or injections. However, if the pain worsens, or bladder/bowel function or sensation is affected, surgery may be necessary. A neurosurgeon will assess the degree of nerve compression and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

An MRI scan of the affected part of the spine or brain is usually the most informative. In some cases, a CT scan, X-rays, or EMG (electromyography) may also be required. If you already have results, please bring any previous reports, medical records or discharge summaries from previous clinics, and a list of medications. This helps the surgeon assess your situation more accurately and saves time.