Neurology is a specialized branch of medicine which studies the ailments of the nervous system such as brain, spinal cord, central nervous system as well as related tissues and muscles of a human body.  Neurology is considered as the most complex branch of medicine. It can be further classified into three groups namely, Clinical Neurophysiology, Child Neurology, and Pain Medicine. Clinical Neurophysiology deals with diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorder of autonomic, central and peripheral nervous systems. Child or pediatric neurology deals with diagnosis and treatment of the brain and nervous system disorders in children and adolescents. Pain management focuses on relieving serious illnesses and chronic pains caused by neurologic diseases.

Neurologist is a medical practitioner who diagnoses and provides treatment for the disorder of nervous system, spinal cord, nerves, muscles and brain. He treats disorders such as brain trauma, stroke, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease. Besides medical practice, a neurologist is also involved in research work.

Medical Education Training:

The students interested in becoming a neurosurgeon are required to pursue a DO program or MD in Neurology. In addition, one is required to pursue a residency program in Neurosurgery for becoming a Neurosurgeon. Students who have completed their MBBS degree and internship of one year can pursue a PG program in neurology. Certain state conducted certification tests should also be cleared by the students to acquire a license in India.

Personality Traits:

The characteristics required are dedication, patience, eye-hand coordination, motivation, ability to work as part of a team, ability to work under stress and ability to make effective decisions in emergency situations.

Employment Opportunities:

Mostly, neurosurgeons join as physicians in private sanatoriums or government health departments in medical schools, research laboratories and medical institutes. Neurosurgeons can also open their own dispensaries or clinics, which is quite profitable. An entry level neurosurgeon mostly earns Rs. 25,000 -30,000 per month in India.

Opportunities are galore for neurologists since the number of professionals in this field is less. So, students inclined towards neurology should certainly pursue their interests as our country needs good professionals in the field of neurology.