# Should I See a Neurosurgeon or an Orthopedic Surgeon?

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/should-i-see-a-neurosurgeon-or-an-orthopedic-surgeon/
- Published: 2024-07-15T16:36:22-04:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

## Should I See a Neurosurgeon or an Orthopedic Surgeon in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC?

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## Should I See a Neurosurgeon or an Orthopedic Surgeon?

## What is the Difference Between a Neurosurgeon and an Orthopedic Surgeon?

Both orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are both specialists in spine surgery.
While they both treat spine conditions, some conditions are best treated by one 
or the other. Orthopedic surgeons are experts on injuries and conditions of the 
musculoskeletal system, while neurosurgeons focus on injuries and conditions of 
the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. Many orthopedic surgeons have specialized training
in spinal surgery, but some conditions can only be treated by neurosurgeons. At 
Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA), we’ll recommend the best
provider for you based on your symptoms and diagnosis.

## What Medical Issues Can an Orthopedic Surgeon Treat?

An orthopedic surgeon can treat issues that affect the entire musculoskeletal system.
While some specialize in spine surgery, they also treat conditions and injuries 
that affect the hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle. Orthopedic spine surgeons
follow a patient from diagnosis and surgery through rehabilitation. While in recovery,
patients remain under the supervision of their surgeon through [physical therapy](https://carolinaona.com/physical-therapy/)
to total rehabilitation.

## What Medical Issues Require a Neurosurgeon?

[Neurosurgeons](https://carolinaona.com/neurosurgical-center/) are skilled in diagnosing
and treating diseases or disorders that affect the central and peripheral nervous
system, including issues related to the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and
spinal column. These issues may include traumatic injury, [stroke](https://carolinaona.com/neurology-center/stroke-specialist/),
spinal infection, congenital anomalies, degenerative diseases of the spine, and 
brain infection. Conditions such as [spinal cord tumors](https://carolinaona.com/spinal-tumors/),
spina bifida, nerve root cancer, or tumors between the skull and upper spine require
operation inside the brain or the dura mater of the spinal cord and, as such, may
only be performed by a board-certified Neurosurgeon. These specialists often have
little to do with patients after treatment.

## Do I Need a Neurosurgeon or Orthopedic Surgeon?

The decision to see a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon depends on your diagnosis
and needs. Both types of doctors can treat disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, [herniated discs](https://carolinaona.com/orthopedic-spine-surgery/herniated-disc/),
and spine fractures, but certain surgeries require specialized training only neurosurgeons
possess. New spinal surgery techniques combine aspects of neurosurgery and orthopedic
surgery, allowing for advanced care. Orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons
take similar training to become spine specialists. Still, some take additional fellowships
to subspecialize in treatment areas such as pediatrics, cervical spine, lumbar spine,
or others.
In many cases, a surgeon’s subspecialty is a more significant deciding
factor in choosing your provider than whether they are a neurosurgeon or orthopedic
surgeon. When selecting a surgeon, it is important to research their educational
background and ask about their experience level with the issue you are experiencing.
At CONA, [our providers](https://carolinaona.com/physicians-staff/) are fellowship-
trained and board-certified to treat your medical problems.

## Spine Specialists in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC

Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) ‘s staff includes neurosurgeons
and orthopedic surgeons prepared to meet your needs. After a complete evaluation,
we will create a treatment plan and refer you to the best treatment provider for
your condition. [Book an appointment](https://carolinaona.com/appointment-request-form/)
online to get started at our Duncan, Spartansburg, or Greenville locations today.

## Make an Appointment⏎  with A CONA Specialist!

If you are experiencing pain, we encourage you to make an appointment with a Carolina
Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) Board Certified and Fellowship Trained
Orthopedic Specialist as soon as possible. We have offices located in Spartanburg,
Duncan and Greenville, SC.

Remember, the road to recovery starts when you walk through our doors.** **

 [Schedule An Appointment](https://carolinaona.com/appointment-request-form/)

### what Our Patients Are Saying

## Read Their Success Stories

I am happy with this practice all my questions are answered within 24 hours. Dr.
Hoenig is great, his bedside manner is wonderful, he is very thorough, and makes
personal calls after surgery to check on patients. I would definitely recommend 
to family and friends!

 Tori S.

Dr. Hoenig

This has been one of my most positive experiences at a Dr's office. I was treated
with respect and love. They made my surgical procedure less stressful and very positive.

 Mindy U.

General Practice

These are the best group of doctors that myself & my family have ever been treated
by in this field of medicine. They listen to how you feel instead of telling you
how you feel. Thank you all for your caring & kindness.

 Lori L.

General Practice