Neurology

At UCHealth, our neurology specialists provide expert care for a broad spectrum of neurological disorders.

We combine a patient-centered approach with advanced technology, research and education to deliver the highest quality neurological and neurosurgical care in the Rocky Mountain region.

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Neurological conditions we treat

Our neurologists are highly trained in diagnosing and treating the most common — and most complex — neurological conditions, including:

Clinical trials

At UCHealth, we conduct hundreds of clinical trials (also called research trials or research studies) in our ongoing effort to discover and deliver more effective treatments.

Our goal is to translate discoveries made in the laboratory to patients as quickly as possible.

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Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson’s

Neurology FAQs

What is the most common neurological disorder?

Headaches are one of the most common neurological disorders—and there are a variety of different kinds of headaches, such as migraines, cluster headaches and tension headaches.

Does an MRI scan show nerve damage?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an imaging technique that produces images of different parts of the body, including your organs and soft tissues, using powerful magnets and computer-generated radio waves.

Because of its ability to take such detailed pictures, an MRI can sometimes help doctors to locate structural lesions that may be affecting a nerve. Doctors will typically be able to use a neurological exam along with an MRI scan to assess for nerve damage.

MRIs can help doctors identify conditions that cause nerve damage, including spinal cord compression or fracture, arthritic changes, tumors pressing on a nerve or herniated vertebral discs.

Can anxiety cause neurological symptoms?

Because anxiety can cause the brain to send unusual signals to the rest of your body, it could be considered a neurological symptom in itself. Anxiety doesn’t cause neurological damage on its own, but it still can produce symptoms like:

  • Confusion/De-realization
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Lightheadedness/Dizziness
  • Memory loss
  • Nerve pain
  • Tingling hands and feet
  • Vision problems
How does a neurologist check for nerve damage?

In addition to noninvasive neurological evaluations such as electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction velocity (NCV) testing and MRIs, neurologists will use electrodiagnostic tests to assess the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. This allows neurologists to determine several things: if nerve damage is present, the extent of that damage and the potential cause of the damage.

Can a neurologist detect mental illness?

No. While neurologists specialize in the treatment of physical conditions caused by damage or disease to your nervous system, they aren’t trained to diagnose or treat mental health conditions like depression.

Can depression cause neurological symptoms?

Yes, depression and neurologic disorders are linked. Studies have shown that people with major neurologic conditions are more likely to develop depression, and those with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing several neurologic conditions, including dementia, epilepsy, migraine, Parkinson’s disease and stroke.

What are signs of neurological problems?

While there are some common symptoms of neurological disorders or diseases, not everyone will present with the same symptoms. It’s also important to remember that some symptoms may look like other medical conditions or problems. That’s why you should always seek out the opinion of your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Some common neurological symptoms may include:

  • A headache that changes or is different.
  • Back pain that radiates to the feet, toes or other parts of the body.
  • Impaired mental ability.
  • Lack of coordination.
  • Tingling sensation or loss of feeling.
  • Double vision or loss of sight.
  • Memory loss.
  • Muscle rigidity.
  • Muscle wasting and slurred speech.
  • New language impairment (expression or comprehension).
  • Persistent or sudden onset of a headache.
  • Tremors and seizures.
  • Weakness or loss of muscle strength.
When should someone see a neurologist?

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these unexplained symptoms, you should consult your doctor. After examination, your doctor may recommend a neurological exam with a specialist.

  • Chronic or severe headaches.
  • Chronic pain.
  • Dizziness.
  • Memory problems or confusion.
  • Movement problems.
  • Numbness or tingling.