5 on the Fly: Neurologists and Accident Victims.

By Matt Lalande in Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyer on July 06, 2023

What exactly is a Neurologist?

A neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. This is a highly specialized field and requires many years of training and education.

Neurologists typically spend four years in undergraduate studies, four years in medical school, a year in an internship, and at least three years in specialized residency training. Some neurologists may also choose to complete additional fellowship training to further specialize in areas such as stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular disease, sleep medicine, neuroimmunology, clinical neurophysiology, or movement disorders.

Neurologists are skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, and they use a variety of diagnostic tests to help them determine the cause of a patient’s symptoms. These tests can include neuroimaging studies like CT scans or MRIs, electroencephalography (EEG) for studying brain waves, electromyography (EMG) for examining the electrical activity of muscles, and lumbar punctures (spinal taps) for analyzing cerebrospinal fluid.

Common conditions that a neurologist may diagnose and treat include stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), epilepsy, migraines, and many other disorders of the nervous system. If necessary, a neurologist may perform or request additional procedures, like nerve conduction studies, sleep studies, or even deep brain stimulation surgery in collaboration with a neurosurgeon.

It’s important to note that while neurologists are skilled at diagnosing and managing these conditions, they typically do not perform surgery. Neurosurgery is a separate field of medicine performed by neurosurgeons, who are surgical specialists in the nervous system. However, neurologists and neurosurgeons often work closely together in managing patients’ care.

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5 Reasons why an Accident Victims would see a Neurologist

A victim involved in a serious car accident, motorcycle accident, bicycle accident or pedestrian accident might be referred to a neurologist for a number of reasons, mainly related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of injuries involving the nervous system (the brain, spinal cord, and nerves). Here are some common reasons:

1. Head Injuries: If the accident victim has suffered a concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or any other type of head injury, they may be referred to a neurologist for further evaluation and management. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, seizures, or changes in behavior can be indications of a brain injury.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries: In case of injuries to the spine or suspected spinal cord injury, which can result in paralysis or other severe complications, a neurologist’s expertise is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
3. Peripheral Nerve Injuries: If the accident resulted in injuries that affect peripheral nerves (those outside of the brain and spinal cord), such as brachial plexus injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome, a neurologist might be involved in the care to assess nerve function and guide treatment.
4. Seizures or Changes in Consciousness: If the victim experiences seizures, loss of consciousness, or altered mental status following an accident, they may need a neurologist to evaluate the cause and determine appropriate treatment.
5. Post-Traumatic Symptoms and Follow Up: Sometimes, neurological symptoms may develop after an accident, like persistent headaches, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, or changes in personality. These could be signs of post-concussion syndrome or other neurological conditions that a neurologist is well-equipped to evaluate and manage. Also – a neurologist might be involved in the long-term care of an accident victim, monitoring their recovery, managing any ongoing symptoms, and coordinating rehabilitative care.

Remember, not all accident victims will need to see a neurologist. The decision to involve a neurologist will depend on the nature and severity of the injuries, the presence of neurological symptoms, and the judgment of the initial treating physicians.

5 Reasons why Neurologists play a Critical Role in the Management of Spinal Cord Injury Victims.

A neurologist plays a crucial role in the management and treatment of patients who have suffered a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Here’s how a neurologist can help:

1. Immediate Diagnosis and Assessment: Following the injury, a neurologist can perform a detailed examination to assess the extent and level of the spinal cord injury. They often use imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays to visualize the injury.
2. Acute Management: Neurologists work closely with a team of healthcare professionals to provide immediate care. This includes minimizing further injury, managing pain, preventing complications (such as respiratory issues, blood clots, and pressure sores), and starting appropriate medications.
3. Neurological Rehabilitation: After the initial phase, neurologists are integral to the rehabilitation process, which aims to maximize function and quality of life. This can include physical therapy to improve mobility and strength, occupational therapy to assist with daily activities, and other therapies to manage complications like bladder issues, bowel control, and sexual function.
4. Neurological Follow-ups: A neurologist will conduct regular follow-ups to monitor the patient’s progress, manage any complications or new symptoms, and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
5. Research and Clinical Trials: Some neurologists are involved in research and may be able to inform patients about clinical trials for new treatments or interventions for spinal cord injury.

Remember, the specific role of the neurologist can vary depending on the individual patient’s needs and the healthcare system. Other professionals like neurosurgeons, physiatrists, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists often collaborate with neurologists to provide comprehensive care for spinal cord injury patients.

If you’ve been hurt in an Accident, our Hamilton Accident Lawyers can help.

If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries in a serious accident, you have the right to pursue legal action against the negligent driver who caused your injuries and losses. We can’t undo the past, but our Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyers can ensure that you and your loved ones are financially secure in a time of need.

Since 2003, our Hamilton Motorcycle Accident Lawyers have recovered tens of millions in compensation in personal injury cases for residents in Hamilton and the surrounding areas. If you have been involved in a serious accident, call us today, no matter where you are in Ontario at 1-844-LALANDE or local in Hamilton and throughout Southern Ontario at 905-333-8888. Alternatively, you can email us confidentially through our website or chat 24/7 with our live chat operator.