Tests & Treatments

In the world of medicine, neurological disorders are the most challenging to diagnose, manage and monitor due to the complexity of the nervous system. Magnolia Neurology Clinic assists patients in achieving their overall health goals through diagnostic testing and personalized treatment plans. We provide Botox injections, cognitive testing, and occipital nerve blocks onsite. We also refer patients to other clinics and physicians for a variety of tests and treatments.

Botox Injections

Treatment
  • Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours before treatment
  • Stop blood thinning medications and supplements as directed to reduce bruising risk
  • Wear comfortable clothing with easy access to treatment areas
  • Plan to avoid strenuous exercise and physical activity for 24 hours after injections
  • Do not lie down flat for 4 hours after treatment
  • Avoid rubbing or massaging the injection sites
  • Bring a list of previous Botox treatments and their effectiveness

Cognitive Testing

Diagnostic Test
  • Get a full night’s sleep before the test to ensure optimal performance
  • Eat a normal breakfast or lunch before testing to maintain energy levels
  • Bring glasses, hearing aids, or other assistive devices you normally use
  • Continue taking all regular medications unless specifically instructed otherwise
  • Bring a list of all current medications and medical conditions
  • Inform the examiner of any physical limitations that may affect testing
  • Plan for adequate time as testing can take several hours with breaks included

Occipital Nerve Block

Treatment
  • Medical History & Medications: Inform your doctor of any allergies (especially to local anesthetics) and if you are taking blood thinners (e.g., Aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix).
  • Expectations: The procedure, including prep and observation, usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hr.
  • Positioning: You will lay on an exam table on your side with chin tucked down
  • Sterilization: The skin at the back of the head is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
  • Injection: A small needle is used to inject a mixture of anesthetic and steroid near the nerves, which may feel like a pinch or pressure.
  • Monitoring: Vital signs may be monitored.
  • Observation: You will be monitored for about 30 minutes after the injection.
  • Numbness: The scalp on the injected side may feel numb, and temporary dizziness or a headache may occur.
  • Activity: Normal activities can usually be resumed the next day, though you should avoid strenuous activity and soaking in water (baths) for 24 hours.

Carotid Ultrasound (referral)

Cardiovascular Test
  • Wear a shirt with an open or loose-fitting collar for easy access to your neck Avoid wearing necklaces or other jewelry around the neck area
  • Continue taking all regular medications as prescribed
  • No fasting is required before the procedure
  • Bring a complete list of medications and relevant medical history
  • The procedure is completely painless and safe
  • You can resume normal activities immediately after

Echocardiogram (referral)

Diagnostic Test
  • Wear a shirt with an open or loose-fitting collar for easy access to your neck
  • Avoid wearing necklaces or other jewelry around the neck area
  • Continue taking all regular medications as prescribed
  • No fasting is required before the procedure
  • Bring a complete list of medications and relevant medical history
  • The procedure is completely painless and safe
  • You can resume normal activities immediately after

Electroencephalogram/EEG (referral)

Diagnostic Test
  • Wash hair the night before with regular shampoo (no conditioner, gels, or styling products)
  • Avoid caffeine 8 hours before test as it can affect brain activity
  • Get your normal amount of sleep unless instructed otherwise for a sleep-deprived EEG
  • Bring a complete list of current medications and dosages
  • Eat a normal meal before the test to prevent low blood sugar
  • Continue taking seizure medications unless specifically told otherwise

Electromyography/EMG (referral)

Nerve Test
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows easy access to the areas being tested
  • Avoid lotions, oils, or creams on your skin the day of the test
  • Inform your doctor about all blood thinning medications including aspirin
  • Stay well-hydrated before the procedure
  • Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker or are taking medications that affect muscles
  • Plan to shower before the test rather than after for comfort

Magnetic Resonance Imaging/MRI (referral)

Diagnostic Test
  • Complete a questionnaire about metal in or on your body (including shrapnel or metal fragments in eyes).
  • Remove all jewelry, watches, hairpins, and glasses. You may need to change into a hospital gown.
  • Generally, you can eat and drink normally, but some, like MRCP or abdominal scans, require fasting for 4 to 8 hours.
  • Continue taking normal medications unless instructed otherwise.
  • If you are anxious in enclosed spaces, inform your doctor beforehand, as they may prescribe medication.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment for paperwork.