About Neurologists

Neurologist are medical doctors specializing in the nervous system of the human body. Neurologists study, diagnose and treat injuries and diseases of the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, muscles and nerves. Most neurologists specialize in a particular aspect of neurology.

Neurologist Education

Neurologists must undergo extensive training before gaining board certification. Neurologists are required to complete four years of undergraduate college study, four years of medical school, a one year internship and three years as a neurology resident. Twelve years of higher education are necessary before a neurologist can begin study of their sub specialties. Board certified neurologists focus on their sub specialty by working with other neurologists in fellowship programs.

Neurologist Research

Neurologists research a wide variety of disorders of the human nervous system. This includes everything from traumatic brain injuries to spinal cord injuries to sleep disorders to chronic pain from migraines. They also research degenerative neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Neurologists also develop more efficient ways to remove brain tumors, treat spinal cord lesions and repair nerves.

Psychiatry Link

Neurologists often work closely with psychiatrists to solve neurological mysteries. The two specialties complement each other while devising solutions and preventing future problems. Neurology examines the physical function of the nervous system while psychiatry focuses on behavior. Many board certified neurologists also belong to the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). The organization helps the two fields of study work together. The ABPN offers additional certification in sub specialties such as child psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry and addiction psychiatry.

Neurologist Diagnosis

Neurologists diagnose problems with the nervous systems of patients. This includes sudden problems with sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. These are often linked to neurological disorders. Neurologists also investigate sudden difficulty with normal motor functions. Problems with balance, reflexes and muscle strength are often neurological in origin. Neurologists also diagnose disorders of the brain such as memory loss, the inability to speak properly and difficulty with abstract thought.

Neurologist Tests

Neurologists use many complex tests to help them diagnose neurological problems and develop treatments. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed axial tomography (CAT scan) are often used to look inside the brain and spinal cord. Neurologists also perform lumbar punctures (spinal taps) to examine the cerebrospinal fluid that coats the brain and spinal cord. Electrical activity is studied with an electroencephalography (EEG) of the brain or an electromyography (EMG) of the muscles.