[JerryLBell]

I have a deteriorating disc in my back that is getting fairly painful. My GP has tried me on anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants, I've gone through a regiment of physical therapy and I've tried chiropractic treatments. I think my next option is to have the disc removed and two vertebrae fused. I've previously had this done on a bad disc in my neck and it was handled by a really good neurosurgeon back in North Carolina who has since retired. Some people have suggested an orthopedic surgeon but while they may be great at shoulders, hips, knees and elbows, I prefer a neurosurgeon for anything touching the spine. Can anyone recommend a good (preferably great, of course!) neurosurgeon in The Villages that takes United Healthcare/Medicare?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

[drbales]

I have good experience with the Ocala Neurosurgical Center. Dr. Daniel Robertson is the doctor I would recommend. 352 - 421-6676

[billethkid]

I second the recommendation for Dr. Robertson.
100% cured my spine problem(s).

[JerryLBell]

Thanks, drbales & billethkid!

[NotGolfer]

Years ago, right after moving here, I had a ruptured disc in my lower spine. T.V. at that time had an excellent neurosurgeon whose office was off from Old Camp Rd. He left, which no one knew for sure why. In the meantime---I'd never see an orthopedic surgeon---I'd go to a neurosurgeon instead. I've heard good things about the practice in Ocala but not sure if any of those doctors are orthopedic or neuro. I may have to have further treatment down the line so will have to clarify that question. I've had years of chiropractic and also 2 rounds of steroid shots with a pain specialist. I'm done with those two.

I hope the OP finds someone good and reports back to us!!

[rjn5656]

Just went to Dr Baker in Orlando. Was recommended to me by someone who had successful surgery with him.

[twopjt]

Telling my entire sad/bad back story including multiple surgery's would take many pages and possibly bring a tear to your eye. The happy ending was provided by Dr Daniel Ho at Shands hospital in Gainesville. He specializes in tough cases so you have to 'try out' to be his patient. He gave me my life back. Sadly it didn't improve my putting.

[jbbarnard]

Why did you say you'd go to a neurosurgeon instead of an orthopedic surgeon? Thx

Originally Posted by NotGolfer

Years ago, right after moving here, I had a ruptured disc in my lower spine. T.V. at that time had an excellent neurosurgeon whose office was off from Old Camp Rd. He left, which no one knew for sure why. In the meantime---I'd never see an orthopedic surgeon---I'd go to a neurosurgeon instead. I've heard good things about the practice in Ocala but not sure if any of those doctors are orthopedic or neuro. I may have to have further treatment down the line so will have to clarify that question. I've had years of chiropractic and also 2 rounds of steroid shots with a pain specialist. I'm done with those two.

I hope the OP finds someone good and reports back to us!!

[PugMom]

neurosurgeons specialize in the surrounding nerves. anyone having a back/spine operation NEEDS a neuro. they can go in there & 'kill' the painful nerve. there is a bland numbness where my sciaticca used to be, pain gone. id use an ortho for a knee job, or hip, but do not use for spinal injuries

[NotGolfer]

Originally Posted by jbbarnard

Why did you say you'd go to a neurosurgeon instead of an orthopedic surgeon? Thx

Because it's a spine and the spinal cord is involved. A neurosurgeon would be expert. I'd see an ortho for bones---such as legs, arms or shoulders. It's just my preference. Oh---and the neuro I did see answered a question I'd had as back then we were seasonal. My question was "what if I have issues when we're up north?" He told me to find a neurosurgeon so he didn't have something to lose in the mix.

[NotGolfer]

Originally Posted by PugMom

neurosurgeons specialize in the surrounding nerves. anyone having a back/spine operation NEEDS a neuro. they can go in there & 'kill' the painful nerve. there is a bland numbness where my sciaticca used to be, pain gone. id use an ortho for a knee job, or hip, but do not use for spinal injuries

What PugMom said......

[Inexes@aol.com]

Originally Posted by NotGolfer

What PugMom said......

As an Operating Room RN, I have always likened it to the difference between a carpenter and a fine watch maker..... not only in tools but also technique.....

Originally Posted by JerryLBell

I have a deteriorating disc in my back that is getting fairly painful. My GP has tried me on anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants, I've gone through a regiment of physical therapy and I've tried chiropractic treatments. I think my next option is to have the disc removed and two vertebrae fused. I've previously had this done on a bad disc in my neck and it was handled by a really good neurosurgeon back in North Carolina who has since retired. Some people have suggested an orthopedic surgeon but while they may be great at shoulders, hips, knees and elbows, I prefer a neurosurgeon for anything touching the spine. Can anyone recommend a good (preferably great, of course!) neurosurgeon in The Villages that takes United Healthcare/Medicare?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

I use Orlando Neurosurgery, They are fantastic and they listen.