Health Topics

Find information on many health topics, listed A to Z.

Neurosurgery

We specialize in disorders that impact any part of the nervous system, which may include the brain, spine or peripheral nerves. Conditions treated range from life-threatening brain tumors, to disorders impacting quality of life, such as back pain and carpel tunnel syndrome.

From The Blog

Bride walks down the aisle after brain surgery

Christina Anderson and her fiancé, Brandon Jensen, were on their way to happily ever after when a CT scan revealed a tumor on Christina's brainstem.

November 25, 2019

Back pain basics

The good news: back pain rarely is a sign of something serious. The bad news: Most of us will have back pain at some point. Learn the basics of back pain, how to get relief and when its time to worry.

October 1, 2019

Benign brain tumor discovered, removed — all in one week

David Lindner is back to a life rich in possibilities. Read about the whirlwind week in which he learned he had a brain tumor, underwent surgery to remove it and went home to recover.

September 27, 2019

Surgery leads to a happy back, retirement

Jennifer Van Berkum is enjoying retirement and feeling 100% better after her back surgeries. Read about this nurse's path to surgery and how the care team exceeded her high expectations.

September 25, 2019

Family, faith and science help battle brain tumor

Ali Rouse is relying on her family, faith and science during her battle with a brain tumor. Read about her diagnosis, unique treatment plan, and the collaborative care between her local health care team and experts at Mayo Clinic.

September 23, 2019

Do you have good posture?

Good posture can affect how you feel and move throughout your life. Get tips on how to improve your posture today.

September 22, 2019

What is a spinal fusion, and does it work?

“Oh my aching back!” If your back pain is caused by structural issues and not muscle or ligament strain, find out what spinal fusion is and how you can benefit.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer June 14, 2019

When should I see a doctor about back pain?

About 80% of adults experience back pain at some time in their lives. For most people, it will go away on its own in four to six weeks with self-care. So, how do you know when to see your doctor about your back pain? Here's a few causes or symptoms that indicate it's time to schedule that appointment.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer May 8, 2019

Waseca man walking tall after spinal surgery

Gyles Randall's troubles started more than 10 years ago with nerve pain through his waist, buttocks, legs, calves and ankles, which he lived with for years until he couldn’t ignore the pain any longer. Like many patients with radiating leg pain, Randall was surprised to be referred to a neurosurgeon. But that referral has made a world of difference for the Waseca man.

April 10, 2019

Woman gets life back after unexpected hydrocephalus diagnosis

Dorothy Sorlie's decreased mobility was blamed on arthritis and a right foot which needed surgery. Determined to find the root cause, a CT scan was ordered, which showed something more serious.

January 30, 2019

Doctor becomes patient: What he learned

Andrew Calvin, M.D., spends plenty of time in a doctor’s office — his own. But he says his eyes were opened when the tables were turned recently, and he became the patient.

July 6, 2018

A second chance after traumatic brain injury

Henry Gomez is grateful for second chances. After sustaining a near-fatal brain injury following a fall, he is preparing for return to college.

March 12, 2018