Neurology/Brain and Spine Care

UAB St. Vincent’s specialists provide advanced neurosurgical care for conditions related to the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system.

Neurologic pain is often the first warning sign something may be wrong: you might have a headache that won’t go away, back pain, or tingling and numbness in your hands and feet. We first listen to understand your questions and concerns about symptoms related to neurologic pain. Then, we develop a care plan that’s right for you.

We offer thorough tests for a range of neurologic disorders and brain and spine conditions. And our specialists provide care from diagnosis to treatment and then follow-up care for your needs, focusing on:

Performing advanced brain and spine surgery

When brain or spine surgery is needed, our highly trained neurosurgeons offer a range of options starting with minimally invasive surgery, when possible. We also have access to the latest technology, including robotic surgery at some locations, from across our national health network. Our surgeons work with you to create a surgery and recovery plan. Our doctors are part of a national network of neurologic specialists, which allows them to share ideas on best practices for treating complex health conditions, including swelling and pressure on the brain, aneurysms, brain tumors and spinal cord injuries.

Emergency care for brain and spine injuries

In an emergency, our care teams in ERs at UAB St. Vincent’s hospitals and sites of care deliver immediate and comprehensive care for brain and spinal cord injuries and stroke. And because we’re more than emergency care, we connect you to the appropriate follow-up care.

Signs of stroke in men and women

ERs at UAB St. Vincent’s hospitals provide 24/7 care for heart attack and stroke.

Balance: Check for the sudden loss of balance and dizziness
Eyes: Ask if vision is lost or unclear.
Face: Look for an uneven smile.
Arm: Check if one arm is weak.
Speech: Listen for slurred speech.
Time: Call 911 right away if you or someone else has any of these symptoms.

Common symptoms of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI)

TBI symptoms may include:

• Balance problems
• Dizziness
• Feeling tired, having no energy
• Fuzzy or blurred vision
• Persistent headache
• Sensitivity to noise or light

If you have a spinal cord injury, your symptoms could include problems from moving one side of your body, to being unable to move your arms or legs. The symptoms of a contusion, or severe back injury, include:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Electric-shock like sensations
• Burning in the arms or legs

Getting the right care at the right time for brain and spine injuries is critical for your health.

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the ER or call 911.