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This page was last updated at 12:32PM on September 10, 2012

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Private Service

Elizabeth B Walker - Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist

Hours

188 Specialist Centre
Monday 1:15pm - 5:15pm
Wednesday 8am - 12pm

Eastcare Specialist Centre
Once a month on Friday

Description

What is Neurology?
Neurology is the study of the Nervous System (brain, spinal cord and nerves), how it controls various parts of the body and the diseases and disorders that may affect it.
 
The brain coordinates how we think and what we do physically as well as controlling how the body manages itself.  It sends messages to, and receives information from, the rest of the body via a complex system of nerves which use chemicals and electricity to send information.
 
A medical specialist in this field is a Neurologist.  A Neurosurgeon is a surgeon who operates on parts of the nervous system.  The two specialists often work together, depending on the problem.

A Clinical Neurophysiologist is a neurologist who has had additional training in specialised testing of electrical pathways in the peripheral nervous system and muscle, as well as the brain.

Referral Expectations

Your GP will refer you to see a neurologist if they think you have a problem that involves the nervous system and that needs specialist help in diagnosing or treating that condition.
 
A history of your symptoms will be taken as well as a review of any medications you are on (so please bring these with you).  The doctor may also review any old notes and previous problems you have had.  It is important to bring any medical records you have, and any test results or scans you may have in your possession, as well as your current medications.

Clear communication about your problems is essential. If you have difficulty communicating in English, it is advised that you bring along someone who can interpret for you. If you have had any blackouts, it is helpful to bring along a description from someone who may have witnessed the blackout.

You will then be examined which may include a general examination as well as an examination of the nervous system.  An examination of the brain and nerves may include testing your memory and concentration as well as other aspects of thinking processes.  It also involves examining how well the nerves to your head and body are working.   Appointments last 30-60 minutes.
 
The specialist will discuss with you the possible diagnosis and what further tests or treatments are recommended.  They will correspond with your GP about your diagnosis, results of tests and a treatment plan.  You may have ongoing follow-up with the specialist or be discharged back to the care of your GP. 
 
You may also be referred to a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.  A physiotherapist provides physical therapy to assist with any disability you have.  An occupational therapist reviews what equipment/advice will assist in activities of daily living if you have a disability. 

 Clinical neurophysiology is a specialised area of neurology which involves measurement of nerve, muscle and brain function. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography are used to investigate disorders of peripheral nerve or muscle. Usually this is performed on the advice of another specialist. Occasionally your general practitioner may refer you for this test if Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is suspected.

ACC funded cases are not accepted, unless there is a purchase order approved by an ACC manager.

Procedures / Treatments / Common Conditions

  • Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS)

    NCS are tests of the speed of conduction of impulses through a nerve.  A doctor performs the tests, sometimes with a technician.… More

  • Electromyography (EMG)

    EMG is a test that assesses disorders of muscles and the nerves controlling them.… More

  • Electroencephalogram (EEG)

    An EEG is a test to detect abnormalities in the electrical activity of the brain. … More

  • Radiology

    Computer Tomography (CT) A CT image is created by using an X-ray beam, which is sent through the body from different angles giving cross-sectional images of the body.… More

  • Lumbar Puncture (LP)

    Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.  It is often helpful when diagnosing certain conditions to examine this fluid for cells and chemicals/proteins.  A lumbar puncture allows the doctor to examine the content and pressure of this fluid.… More

  • Epilepsy

    Epilepsy is a condition where people have seizures or ‘fits’.  Seizures may present in many forms but are due to bursts of electrical activity within the brain.   The problem can be with the electricity of the brain on its own or due to some underlying structural lesion of the brain.… More

  • Headaches/Migraines

    Most headaches are not due to significant underlying problems but you may be referred if your GP is worried about the nature of your headaches or you are having difficulty controlling them with standard treatment.… More

  • Parkinson's Disease

    Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the brain characterised by shaking (tremor), slowing of movement and difficulty with walking and coordination.… More

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

    Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease involving the brain and spinal cord.  It occurs over time in multiple sites in these two areas of the nervous system.… More

  • Motor Neurone Disease (MND)

    This refers to a group of progressive disorders where there is destruction of motor neurones (the nerves that control voluntary muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing, and swallowing.)  Symptoms include: gradual weakening, shrinking of muscles and uncontrollable twitching of the muscles.  Sensation, memory and personality are not affected.… More

Consultants

Dr Elizabeth Walker
Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist

Location Information

Contact Details

Phone 09 585 0190
Fax 09 585 0195

Dr Walker also works at:

Eastcare Specialist Centre
260 Botany Rd
Howick

Neurology Department
Auckland Hospital
Park Rd
Auckland

Street Address

188 Specialist Centre
188 St Heliers Bay Rd
St Heliers
Auckland 1071

Postal Address

Private Bag 25905
St Heliers
Auckland 1740

Map & more information

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