The goal of a spine consultation is to identify the likely cause of symptoms, assess neurological function where appropriate and develop a treatment plan suited to the diagnosis.
When to seek urgent care
Conditions assessed
Depending on clinical presentation and scope of practice, assessment may include:
- Neck pain and lower back pain
- Disc herniation and related symptoms
- Sciatica and nerve-root irritation
- Degenerative spinal conditions
- Spinal canal narrowing
- Selected spinal injuries and fractures
- Other spinal conditions requiring specialist evaluation
Common symptoms
Patients may experience pain, stiffness, pain radiating into an arm or leg, tingling, numbness or weakness. These symptoms can have different causes, so diagnosis should not be based on symptoms or MRI findings alone.
Assessment and investigations
Assessment may include a detailed history, physical and neurological examination, and review of imaging where indicated. MRI, X-rays, CT or other tests may be appropriate depending on the suspected condition.
An abnormal scan does not automatically mean surgery is necessary. Findings must be interpreted in the context of symptoms and examination.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Options may include education, activity modification, appropriate medication, physiotherapy, selected procedures such as X-ray guided spinal injections, or surgery when clinically indicated.
Surgery may be considered for selected patients with persistent disabling symptoms, significant nerve compression or other conditions for which operative treatment is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Does a slipped disc always require surgery?
No. Many disc-related symptoms improve with non-operative treatment. Surgery may be considered in selected cases based on symptoms, neurological findings and response to treatment.
Should everyone with back pain have an MRI?
No. Imaging is selected according to the history, examination, duration and presence of warning signs.
Can spinal surgery guarantee complete pain relief?
No. Outcomes depend on the diagnosis and many patient-specific factors. Potential benefits, limitations and risks should be discussed before surgery.
This page is general information and does not replace an individual clinical assessment. Treatment decisions depend on your history, examination and investigations.