Workplace injuries can range from minor to serious, from broken bones to serious trauma, potentially having long-term effects on your life. Whether the workplace accident caused new neurological injuries or worsened existing conditions, prompt treatment is crucial.
Treatment from neurologists that accept workers’ compensation will help you get on the road to recovery quickly, and Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. is here to help you find the right neurologist for your injuries in New York.
What Is a Neurologist?
Neurologists specialize in treating and diagnosing disorders of the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. A neurologist is highly familiar with the conditions, anatomy, and functioning of your nerves and the nervous system as a whole. A properly functioning nervous system is crucial to your daily life.
What Does a Neurologist Do?
Now that you know what is a neurologist, what do they do? As mentioned, they specialize in treating patients with conditions that affect the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. Some neurologists will specialize in a particular type of injury or condition or even situation. For example, a workers’ comp neurologist specializes in treating neurological symptoms and injuries that are the result of a workplace injury.
Conditions Neurologists Commonly Treat
The following are some of the conditions that neurologists may treat as part of a workers’ compensation claim.
- Brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Concussion
- Headache or migraine
- Hydrocephalus
- Mental or behavioral health disorders
- Pain in the neck, spine, or back
- Sleep disorders
- Whiplash
- Disc herniation
As you’re wondering exactly “what does a neurologist do,” remember that these professionals don’t just treat patients following a workplace injury.
The following are some other conditions that neurologists commonly treat that are not caused by an injury at work. (Although a workplace injury may worsen symptoms of some of them):
- Alzheimer’s disease
- ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Vascular malformations
- Cerebral aneurysms
- Arteriovenous malformations
- Epilepsy
- Meningitis
- Encephalitis
- Facial pain syndrome
- Myasthenia gravis or myopathies
- Cerebral palsy and spasticity
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Tremor or dystonia
- Tumors in the brain and spinal cord
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Why a Workplace Injury May Require a Visit to the Neurologist
Now that you know what is a neurologist, why would you have to see one after a workplace injury in New York? Or why would your nervous system be damaged? It comes down to the fragility of the nervous system, especially the spinal cord and the brain, combined with the potential for trauma.
If your injury involves a sharp impact or your body jostling quickly, this can lead to trauma to your spinal cord or brain.
When to See a Neurologist After a Workplace Injury
Following a workplace injury, you always want to see a doctor of some sort. You should opt for a neurologist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Forgetfulness or memory disturbances
- Confusion
- Disturbances to taste or smell
- Vision issues
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Facial asymmetries
- Deafness
- Tinnitus
- Vertigo
- Muscle weakness, spasms, twitching, or cramps
- Numbness or tingling
- Difficulties swallowing
- Difficulties with tongue movements
- Hoarseness in your voice
- Difficulties turning your neck or shrugging your shoulders
- Pain in the neck or back
- Headache
- Tremors
- Slow movements
- Gait imbalance
- An electrical-like or burning pain anywhere in your body
- Changes to your mood
- Sleep problems
See a Doctor After Every Workplace Injury
It is crucial to always visit a doctor of some sort following a workplace injury, even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms. A neurologist is a good choice if you have any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Additionally, now that you know what is a neurologist, you should be better able to assess whether they are the right doctor for you to see. If the neurologist feels that another specialist would be a better fit, they will let you know.
Even if you decide not to see a neurologist, you need to see a medical professional after a workplace injury. This is the best way to ensure you don’t have any hidden injuries and that you receive proper treatment.
That will get you on the road to recovery and prevent future symptoms from arising. It will also ensure that your worker’s compensation covers any injuries. After all, the doctor’s documentation will show that the injuries were caused by the accident at work.
Remember that symptoms won’t always appear right away. They can take days or even weeks to appear. By visiting a workers’ comp neurologist, you ensure that you can start treatment immediately and document issues, even if you don’t have symptoms yet.
What to Expect from a Neurologist After a Workplace Injury
You may be wondering what does a neurologist do to diagnose a workplace injury. The diagnostic process will be fairly similar to diagnosing any other neurological condition.
It will start by asking about current symptoms, family history, medication history, and what happened at work. The neurologist will ask for as many details about the injury as possible.
They will then usually complete a neurological exam. This can include testing the following:
- Coordination, gait, reflexes, and balance
- Mental health
- Sensation
- Speech, vision, and hearing
- Muscle strength
Your neurologist may also perform additional diagnostic testing, such as:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Angiographies
- Biopsies
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
- Computed Tomography (CT) scan
- X-rays
- Ultrasounds
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Electroencephalography (EEG)
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Electronystagmography (ENG)
- Myelography
- Evoked potentials
- Polysomnograms
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
- Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT)
- Thermography
How To Find A Workers’ Comp Neurologist in New York
If you’re wondering, “How can I find a neurologist that takes workers’ comp near me,” you’ll need to consider the available options. New York workers have their choice between healthcare providers like workers’ compensation neurologists that the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board (NYS WCB) authorizes to offer services to injured workers.
When you search for a workers’ comp neurologist, you want the best neurologists in New York. Almost 157 instances of traumatic brain injury happen throughout the state on a daily basis, according to the New York State Department of Health. Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. has authorization from the NYS WCB to treat several conditions, including brain tumors, strokes, and traumatic brain injuries.
What to Consider When Looking for Neurologists in New York for Work-Related Injuries
There are several factors to consider when looking for a workers’ comp neurologist in New York, from up-to-date training to experience and on-location services.
Check for Certifications
Certified neurological doctors undergo extensive training. Each of our board-certified professionals is up to date on the latest treatment methods for a variety of neurological conditions, so you can rest easy when choosing us to assess your work-related injury and treat your pain.
Consider How Much Experience They Have
Over 200,000 nonfatal work-related injuries from 2020 happened due to tripping and slip and falls, meaning workers’ comp doctors have no shortage of cases. When a workers’ comp neurologist has experience with cases similar to yours, that usually indicates they’re a trustworthy option. Our certified and licensed neurologists have years of experience diagnosing and treating work-related injuries, making us a reliable choice for New York employees.
Find a Location That Offers Multi-Specialty Care
Going through workers’ comp can involve referrals if you need care from a specialist. This is why you should consider a medical provider that offers multiple medical service providers. We provide a wide range of neurological services at Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C., matched by our exceptional patient care.
Pick a Neurologist With On-Site Testing
Head injuries can worsen without diagnosis or treatment, so it’s paramount to find a workers’ comp neurologist that provides on-site diagnostics. Some of the tests we provide on-site at Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. include:
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Evoked potential test (EP)
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Find Neurologists in New York
Our board-certified workers’ compensation neurologists in New York have vast experience dealing with patients injured at work. This means that they understand the most common injuries resulting from workplace injuries. That, in turn, helps them diagnose you promptly and determine the ideal course of treatment.
Additionally, our network’s experience with workers’ compensation means that they are familiar with the various paperwork and documentation requirements that come with this type of insurance. That makes the process much easier for you, as they will provide you with everything you need for your claim to be successful and reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for you. This way, you have one less thing to worry about and can focus your efforts on healing instead of paying for medical care.
Workers’ Comp Neurologist
In 2021, the U.S. experienced over 5,100 fatal workplace injuries, almost a 9% increase from the previous year. Neurologists can help you recover if you sustain a brain injury or nervous system issue after a workplace accident. Immediate attention from these medical specialists could help you reclaim your life after an unfortunate incident at your job.
Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. has some of the best neurologists in New York. Our doctors have years of experience creating treatment plans for conditions relating to the central nervous system, accurately documenting patients’ injuries, symptoms, and treatments. We can help you find the right workers’ comp neurologist in New York City for an injury from work.
Why Neurological Conditions May Develop After Workplace Accidents
New York State reported over 125,000 nonfatal work-related injuries in the private sector in 2021 alone. These include everything from traumatic brain injuries to broken bones and bruises. Brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system injuries are common after work-related accidents.
The impact from a fall, slip, or crash at your job could trigger many neurological conditions and symptoms requiring the help of a knowledgeable workers’ comp neurologist. Even if you don’t notice signs of problems immediately, your symptoms could develop or worsen over time. Seek help fast if you have:
- Neck stiffness
- Migraines
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your limbs
Conditions Workers’ Comp Neurologists Treat
TBIs, or traumatic brain injuries, account for roughly 60% of all head injury insurance claims, making them one of the most common accident-related injuries. Workers’ compensation neurologists treat TBIs and other brain and spinal cord injuries involving concussions, whiplash, herniated discs, headaches, tremors, and other complications.
You can be sure your neurologist has the expertise and experience to diagnose and treat your workplace injury. They will put you on the right treatment plan to stop secondary damage or worsening conditions. Workers’ comp neurologists are also well versed in workers’ compensation laws and the insurance claims process.
Get Individualized Treatment From Some of the Best Neurologists in New York
When researching online for a “neurologist that takes workers’ comp near me,” you’ll see Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. at the top of the list. As top workers’ comp neurologists, our board-certified specialists have ample experience creating viable treatment plans for work-related brain injuries. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection).
Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a neurologist after a work-related injury in New York City.
Schedule a visit with a neurologist from Neurodiagnostics Medical P.C. by calling (347) 602-9530. Same-day appointments may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Workers’ Comp Neurologists
What questions will a neurologist ask during a neurological exam?
A neurologist will ask about your health history, your symptoms, and other conditions you might have.
How does a neurologist treat pain?
Neurologists can treat pain using anesthetics, injections, and nerve blocks.
Why do neurologists look into your eyes?
Neurologists look into your eyes to assess parts of your head and brain that impact your vision.
What Four Things Will a Neurologist Check During a Neurological Exam?
The neurologist will check your cranial nerves, coordination, sensations, and cognitive abilities.
What Is the Most Common Neurological Disorder?
Headaches and related conditions are among the most common neurological disorders in the U.S. These include migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches.
When Should You See a Neurologist After a Work-Related Accident?
It’s best to visit a neurologist after any workplace injury as soon as possible if you experience symptoms like dizziness, headaches, numbness, or chronic pain.
