Neurosurgeons treat many different diseases and conditions affecting the brain, the spine and spinal cord and the peripheral nerves. For most neurosurgeons, the majority of their practice consists of managing patients with spinal disorders. These disorders occur at a much higher rate than brain disorders. Spinal disorders can occur as a result of degenerative (aging) changes, trauma, tumors, infections or congenital defects.

Although most neurosurgeons are capable of managing patients with routine spinal problems such as herniated disc and spinal stenosis, some neurosurgeons further specialize by receiving additional training in a spine fellowship. This additional training has allowed many neurosurgeons to be able to address more complex spinal disorders such as spinal deformities and tumors.

In taking care of patients with spinal disorders, neurosurgeons often work with referring doctors including primary care physicians, emergency room doctors, neurologists, internists, and family practitioners.