@celia16
I did multiple keyword searches on the internet looking for spine specialists (orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons) that had good ratings and accepted my insurance. There are multiple sites that provide patient reviews of doctors and your insurance may have information about surgeons and ratings. I went through the first 3 without much help and the 4th surgeon (my current one) was the only one who really listened to all of my symptoms, did a thorough exam and checked reflexes/gait/MRI and immediately said I have cervical degenerative myelopathy and recommended surgery asap since my symptoms were worsening and it was at a more advanced state where it would progress and cause permanent loss of bladder control/damage of spinal cord. He was the only one to properly diagnose me in 5 years. I had one doctor make me feel like a hypochondriac and I am so glad I fired her and ignored her dismissing my symptoms and advocated for myself (I almost gave up but something in me told me to try a new spine specialist and so glad I did).