If you’re experiencing back or neck pain from an injury or a chronic condition, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. Should you see an orthopedic spine surgeon or a neurosurgeon? While your primary care provider can help guide your decision, understanding the differences between these specialists is key to getting the right care.

Training Differences: Orthopedic Surgeons vs. Neurosurgeons

Both orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are trained to treat spine and neck disorders, but their backgrounds differ:

• Neurosurgeons focus on the central and peripheral nervous system, including the brain, spine, and nerves. They treat conditions such as:
  • Stroke
  • Brain and spinal tumors
  • Congenital anomalies
  • Spinal trauma and infections
  • Degenerative spinal disorders
• Orthopedic spine surgeons specialize in the musculoskeletal system, including the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles of the spine and neck. Their training emphasizes both non-surgical and surgical solutions for conditions like:
  • Herniated discs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spine fractures

Understanding your diagnosis is essential when deciding which type of surgeon to consult. For example, patients with nerve compression and musculoskeletal degeneration often benefit most from an orthopedic surgeon’s expertise.

Comprehensive Spine Care at Iowa Ortho

At Iowa Ortho, our team consists of spine and pain specialists to provide patients with comprehensive, coordinated care. This means:

• If your spine surgeon refers you to pain management or a physical medicine & rehabilitation specialist, the process is smooth and efficient.
• Iowa Ortho has 15 locations in central Iowa, eliminating the need for long-distance travel between clinics or manage multiple referrals.

This approach ensures every patient receives a personalized treatment plan, whether it includes surgery, therapy, or pain management.

Should You See an Iowa Ortho Spine Surgeon?

If you’re wondering whether your pain or injury can be treated by an orthopedic spine specialist, Iowa Ortho is here to help.

Meet our spine surgeons:

• Dr. Trevor Schmitz
• Dr. Brett Rosenthal

Call 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online to begin your care journey.

Iowa Ortho is committed to delivering expert, patient-centered spine care with advanced techniques and convenient access to a full team of specialists—all under one roof.