Expert neurologists in Richmond, Virginia
At HCA Virginia Physicians, our expert neurologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating neurological conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Multispecialist neurology teams offer advanced treatment—including muscle spasm injections and deep brain stimulation—for neurological conditions.
To visit one of our neurologists, schedule an appointment online.
Advanced neurological care
Our neurological care team—made up of neurosurgeons, neurologists and nurses—provides high-quality care for patients experiencing neurological conditions. We focus on providing this comprehensive and compassionate care in a patient-centered atmosphere. Our goal is to ensure patients understand their diagnosis, test results and the doctor's treatment recommendations.
Neurological conditions we treat
Our specialists have experience treating a variety of neurological conditions, including:
- Benign brain tumors
- Central nervous system disorders
- Malignant brain tumors
- Metastatic brain tumors
- Movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease or essential tremors
- Neurodegenerative disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Traumatic brain injuries and head traumas
- Seizure disorders
- Spinal cord disorders
- Stroke
Diagnosing a neurological condition
We offer a range of diagnostic tests and services to ensure we are able to accurately diagnose and treat patients. These tests include:
Electromyography (EMG) testing and nerve conduction studies
EMG testing and nerve conduction studies are used to detect nerve and muscle conditions. An EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles, and the nerve conduction study measures the speed and intensity of electrical signals that travel along nerves.
These two tests provide useful information about the health of your muscles and nerves. They can help detect the cause of problems such as weakness, numbness, spasms or pain. EMG and nerve conduction studies are able to determine if the problem involves the spinal nerve roots, peripheral nerves or muscles.
Neuro-ophthalmology exams
Neuro-ophthalmology exams are used to diagnose and treat visual problems related to the nervous system, rather than originating in the eyes themselves. Neuro-ophthalmologists have specialized training and expertise in conditions of the eyes, brain, nerves and muscles.
Common conditions evaluated by neuro-ophthalmology include:
- Abnormal eye movements
- Double vision
- Eyelid abnormalities
- Myasthenia gravis
- Optic nerve conditions, such as optic neuritis
- Thyroid eye disease
- Unequal pupil size
- Visual field disturbances
Visual field exam
A visual field exam is a test used during a neuro-ophthalmology exam to detect abnormalities of the pathways of vision to the eye, optic nerve or brain. It is also used to document changes in visual function.
Ultrasound screening
Carotid duplex ultrasound scanning is a painless procedure that measures the amount of blood flow in the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are the two major arteries on each side of the neck that carry blood to the head.
Narrowed carotid arteries are a leading cause of a stroke, so carotid duplex ultrasound scanning is used to evaluate the risk of stroke. It is most often used on patients who have a history of stroke or who are believed to be at high risk.
Treatments we offer
Our specialists offer treatments for neurological conditions, including:
Botulinum toxin ("Botox") injections
Botulinum toxin injections are commonly referred to as "Botox," which is a popular brand for this type of injection. The toxin is actually a protein produced by bacteria and is used in small doses to treat muscle spasms and other neurological conditions.
To administer the injection, a physician uses a thin needle to inject tiny amounts of the toxin into specific muscles to help relax the muscle and reduce muscle contractions. Botox injections require no "down time," which means you are able to drive, return to work and resume normal activities the same day as receiving the injections.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
DBS is a surgical procedure in which a small device is implanted to treat patients with movement disorders. This device provides small electrical pulses to areas of the brain that control movement, helping regulate brain activity.
DBS offers many benefits to patients, including:
- A reduced need for medication
- An improved quality of life (compared to medication alone)
- Increased ability to do daily activities, such as bathing or getting dressed
It is important to note that DBS is not a cure for movement disorders, but it can successfully treat symptoms.
