Your primary doctor may infer a condition involving your brain, spinal cord, or nerves that could require surgery. Or perhaps you may have been experiencing symptoms like “nonspecific” low back pain, headaches, sleeping disorders and many other serious problems. These issues may have resulted from illnesses and poor lifestyle choices that caused physical injuries. Injuries that conspicuously take a form of vertebral subluxations, which is essentially misalignment of the spinal column, often require a spinal surgery especially when the pain is tenacious and clearly indicates a mechanical problem.
How spinal surgery works
There are various procedures for spine-related back problems. One of the procedures includes spinal fusion where the neurosurgeon joins two adjacent vertebrae (large bones of the spine) to frame one single unit. Spinal fusion may involve insertion of metal screws and rods to stabilize the spine, which is supposed to prevent motion that could potentially cause severe pain.
We always have to make a choice whether it is as simple as picking a restaurant to eat or as risky as choosing the right neurosurgeon. Finding the best neurosurgeon is Los Angeles involves critical factors to consider because at the end of the day, you are putting your health at risk.
How to Find the Best Neurosurgeon in Los Angeles
You may need to consider the following factors when finding the best neurosurgeon in Los Angeles:
1. Insurance coverage
Getting a neurosurgeon that participates in your insurance plan can be an inexpensive way to get your surgery.
2. References
Nothing can beat the good ol’ word of mouth. Start by getting a referrals list from your trusted primary doctor. Likewise, you can ask your family and friends for recommendation. However, there always be clash of opinions. So, make a list of all the potential referrals then narrow it down according to your own independent research.
3. Check the neurosurgeon’s qualifications and experience
This makes the most important factor to consider. Credentials gives an overall idea of the capabilities of the surgeon. You may need to check the neurosurgeon’s history of malpractice claims, training and the general ambiance of the hospital. Not to mention, you definitely don’t want to give your health to an amateur neurosurgeon hence it’s always better to opt for an experienced neurosurgeon.
4. Patient reviews
Nowadays, anyone can access reviews at their fingertips. Patient satisfaction is by far the major objective for surgeons to achieve. You can personally contact or access published reviews of the insights about the experience, appointments, procedures, medical staff and their experience with the doctor.
Keep the above-mentioned points in mind when researching the right neurosurgeon in Los Angeles who would check you up thoroughly and suggest whether you need spinal surgery or not.
