When to see a spine surgeon
What are the most common reasons patients come to NSW Spine Specialists?
The most common reason we see patients is for neck or back problems that are not improving. There was a time when everyone who had a twinge of pain was referred to us but these days first line treatment guidelines are well disseminated and practiced by health practitioners. We now see more patients with persistent problems, neurological symptoms and scoliosis.
Is it a presumption that patients who come to NSW Spine Specialists will eventually have spine surgery?
Some patients do come with that expectation. When you have had symptoms for a while and you are going to see a surgeon that would be a reasonable assumption. However, only one in six patients we see end up needing surgery and most of our other patients get better with different treatments.
