The neurologist is trained to perform a detailed examination of all the important neurological structures in the body. This includes the nerves of the head and neck, the muscular strength and movement, sensation, balance testing, ambulation and reflex testing. In some patients, very detailed questions regarding memory, speech and language and other cognitive abilities will be part of the examination. Neurologists rely on the clinical examination along with certain other commonly used tests to diagnose the problem a patient is having. These tests can provide detailed anatomic pictures of the brain, spinal structures and the blood vessels.
Neurologists use many forms of medication to treat problems involving the nervous system.
They may send patients to other specialists for some forms of treatment. A neurologist may send a patient for a surgical evaluation, but does not perform surgery. At least three years of specialty training in an accredited neurology residency program. After completing residency training, neurologists may choose to enroll in a fellowship program. A fellowship offers a neurologist the opportunity to develop expertise in a subspecialty of neurology such as stroke, dementia or movement disorders.