You may be referred to Dr Dower by your GP, specialist, or physiotherapist if you are experiencing:
Spinal symptoms
- Shooting pain, tingling, or numbness in your arms or legs (sciatica, radiculopathy)
- Weakness in your hands, arms, or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (may suggest urgent spinal cord compression)
- Radiological findings of spinal cord or nerve root compression
- Persistent back or neck pain not responding to conservative treatments (physiotherapy, medications, injections)
- Difficulty walking long distances due to spinal stenosis (neurogenic claudication)
Brain conditions
- A brain lesion identified on MRI or CT scan
- New neurological symptoms such as weakness, speech difficulties, or vision changes linked to a structural brain pathology
- Unexplained headaches associated with abnormal imaging findings
- Symptoms related to Chiari malformation (headaches, balance problems, swallowing issues)
Peripheral nerve symptoms
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve entrapment, or other nerve compression syndromes not improving with conservative management
Not everyone with these symptoms will need surgery. A consultation with Dr Dower can help clarify your diagnosis and outline the options available. When surgery is the right choice, he provides safe, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. In many cases, a conservative, non-surgical approach may be the best first step. All treatment decisions are made together, with your condition, goals, and preferences guiding the plan.
Making a decision about surgery is significant — and we understand that patients often want clarity and reassurance before proceeding. Dr Dower welcomes referrals for second opinions, whether you’re unsure about your decision, or seeking a fresh perspective. Where appropriate, Dr Dower may recommend a conservative, non-surgical approach as first-line management. All treatment decisions are made in partnership with you, based on your condition, goals, and preferences.