Chiropractor Seek

What is the difference between a neurosurgeon, an orthopedic surgeon, a physiatrist, and a chiropractor? It can be confusing as each type of doctor advertises that they can help with similar ailments, and most can help with back pain of one kind or another.

All of these doctors are spine specialists. Each approaches the back from a different perspective. Your choice depends largely on the type of pain you are experiencing and the type of treatment that offers the best trade-off between your lifestyle choices and potential risks.

Chiropractors and physiatrists provide comparatively conservative care. Neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons will provide conservative care, but can also perform various surgical procedures when needed. The more serious your back pain and ailment, the more likely you will need a neurosurgeons or an orthopedic surgeon.

Orthopedists complete up to five years of training that focuses primarily on bone problems. A neurosurgeon?s seven-year residency training emphasizes the nerves as well as the spinal bones. All neurosurgeons receive extensive training in spinal medicine and surgery during their residency. All have experience in pain management. Most neurosurgeons also take additional advanced training in spine care. If you are referred to a spine specialist for nerve problems like sciatica, you need to ask about their training and experience. In Northern Californian, most neurosurgeons have spent their careers specializing in spine.

P.S. Of all residency training programs, neurosurgery is the longest. In addition to four years of college and four years of medical school, most neurosurgeons complete seven years of residency and one or two years of fellowship.

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