Neurosurgery

Neurosurgery is a medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of disorders affecting the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, spinal column, and peripheral nerves. While often associated with brain surgery, neurosurgery encompasses a wide range of procedures addressing conditions such as tumors, trauma, vascular disorders, degenerative diseases, and nerve injuries throughout the entire nervous system.

A neurosurgeon is specialty-trained to manage these conditions using both surgical and nonsurgical methods. Their patient evaluations include interpreting diagnostic tests, recommending appropriate therapies, and performing complex surgeries when necessary.

Although surgery is a core aspect of their practice, neurosurgeons often explore conservative treatments first, such as medications or physical therapy, before recommending surgery. Their expertise is frequently sought for critical and life-threatening neurological conditions.

Should You See a Neurosurgeon?

It may be time to see a neurosurgeon if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or conditions:

• Chronic back or neck pain that does not improve with conservative treatments
• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the extremities which may indicate nerve compression or damage
• Symptoms of stroke, such as sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, or loss of balance
• Fractured vertebral bodies
• Herniated or ruptured discs
• Infections of the brain
• Peripheral nerve disorder, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
• Spinal cord injuries
• Spinal stenosis
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Tumors of the brain and spine

Specialized Neurosurgical Care You Can Trust in Bristol

Our board-certified neurosurgeons at Highlands Neurosurgery, Dr. Travis Burt, Dr. Jody Helms, and Dr. Andrew Rice, possess advanced expertise in the complex anatomy of the nervous system, including the brain, spine, and nerves, and are committed to providing the highest standard of neurosurgical spine care. Each patient receives a thorough, individualized evaluation, allowing our neurosurgeons to recommend the most effective treatment options for reducing pain and restoring function.

We prioritize nonsurgical approaches whenever possible, carefully considering therapies, such as physical therapy, medication, or spinal injections, before recommending surgery. During your consultation, your neurosurgeon may order advanced imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to closely assess your spinal column and surrounding nerves. This comprehensive approach ensures that you receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, with the goal of helping you return to optimal health and quality of life. Working alongside our neurosurgeons, our physiatrist and licensed physical therapists provide a full and comprehensive set of outpatient orthopedic rehabilitation services. They treat each patient's problem individually through an evaluation to design a specific treatment plan with the overall goal of restoring function and enhancing one's quality of life.

If your spine or neck pain is keeping you from living an active life, we're proud to offer access to a neurosurgical expert. Schedule an appointment with our Neurosurgery Team office by calling (423) 844-5400 for a consultation with one of our expert neurosurgeons to diagnose and treat your brain or spine issue.