When it comes to spine surgery, it is important to choose the most qualified orthopedic surgeon for the job. After all, your spine is a very complex structure, and there are real long-term risks of placing it in the hands of an inexperienced spine surgeon who can’t give you the best outcomes.
To find the best spine surgeon for your care, there are some things you need to do. Below, we give you several tips for choosing a great spine surgeon.
Research Their Credentials
Before making an appointment with any potential surgeons, be sure to research their credentials and qualifications. Look for board certification in orthopedics and fellowship training in spinal surgery. A fellowship-trained spine surgeon has additional training in spine surgery and has gone to great lengths to become some of the most qualified in their field and give their patients the highest quality service.
Check Their Reputation
You should also take some time to read reviews from former patients who have been treated by the spine surgeon before making your decision. It is very easy to look for doctor reviews nowadays. In addition to having extensive training and experience, you want a spine doctor that listens attentively and cares to provide clear explanations about your condition and treatment possibilities.
Choose a Surgeon with Decades of Experience
A spine surgeon with decades of experience has seen many different types of cases over the years and understands how to approach each one in an effective manner. They are well-versed in both traditional surgical techniques, as well as more modern minimally invasive procedures, allowing them to perfectlytailor their treatment plans to patients. In addition, they will be able to draw on their past experiences in order to make informed decisions that lead to the best possible outcome for their patients and reduce overall risk.
Schedule a Consultation Appointment
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential candidates, schedule an initial consultation appointment where you can assess the spine surgeon’s communication style and treatment approach. It is very beneficial for you to be asking questions such as what exactly needs to be done, expected recovery time, risks associated with undergoing such a procedure, and more. Being comfortable and open when communicating with your physician should be a key factor in your decision, as this will help you have better health and treatment outcomes.
Trust Your Gut Instinct
If something doesn’t feel quite right with the doctor, chances are they may not be the best one for you. In the end, a physician can have many accolades, but if you are not compatible, it’s best to continue looking for the one who can advocate for your health and in whom you can put your full trust in.
Top Spine Surgeon in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, Michigan
Dr. Bradley AhlgrenofAhlgren Spine is a top board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon affiliated with Beaumont Hospital. Dr. Ahlgren maintains an excellent reputation in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Lapeer, is well-liked and respected by the community, and is well-reviewed by our patients. For over 25 years, Dr. Ahlgren has been treating patients with neck and back pain.
His impressive qualifications aside, Dr. Ahlgren truly cares about giving our patients the best outcomes from their treatment, whether it’s steroid injections or spinal surgery. He is empathetic toward patients who are suffering from spinal pain, because he understands how debilitating it can be.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Ahlgren, call our office today at (248) 215-8080, text or call at (248) 840-2053, or use our online form.