What general neurology is
General neurology is the evaluation and treatment of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Most patients seen in this practice are here for exactly this kind of care — a genetic cause is the exception, not the rule, and most neurological concerns are fully addressed without ever needing genetic testing.
Conditions commonly evaluated
- Headache and migraine
- Stroke and cerebrovascular disease
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders
- Parkinsonism and other movement disorders
- Dementia and cognitive disorders
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Muscle disorders
- Neuromuscular disease
- Balance disorders and dizziness
- Tremor
- Other neurological symptoms warranting specialist assessment
What to expect during consultation
A visit typically includes a detailed history, a neurological examination, and a discussion of what further testing — if any — is needed. Imaging, electrodiagnostic studies, or laboratory work-up are requested only when they are likely to change the diagnosis or the management plan, not as routine.
When genetic evaluation may become part of the work-up
For most patients, genetic testing is not part of the evaluation. Occasionally, findings from the history or exam — an early age of onset, a family pattern of similar illness, or a presentation that doesn’t fit a typical acquired cause — suggest that a genetic contribution is worth considering. In those situations, this is discussed openly, and a referral into the Neurogenetics Service happens as a natural extension of the same care, not a separate process.
Individualized care, not routine testing
Every recommendation here is made for the individual patient in front of us, based on their history and findings. Genetic testing is a tool used when it is likely to be useful — not a default step, and not something offered simply because it is available.