Dr. Michael Thomas, DO is a Neurology specializing in the comprehensive medical care of older adults (65 and above). He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive neurological care at his clinic in Altamonte Springs, FL, and is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Thomas brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families, with over 30 years of experience in neurological care. He earned his medical degree from Oklahoma State University Center For Health Sciences College Of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his internship at Tulsa Regional Medical Center. Furthering his expertise, he pursued residency training in Neurology at several esteemed institutions, including Albert Einstein College Of Medicine, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, and Nycom-St Barnabas, among others. He also completed fellowship training in University Of Miami and Dr. Allan D. Levi, M.D., Phd, Facs-Spine Fellowship, specializing in a specific area of patient health. Dr. Thomas is Board Certified in Neurosurgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery and is a medical specialist who treats diseases and conditions affecting the nervous system.
Neurologists provide specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing complex neurological conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and neuropathy common in seniors. Dr. Thomas works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care. He understands the unique needs of older adults and is committed to providing individualized treatment plans. He is currently welcoming new patients, and they should call (321) 972-2932 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Thomas's deep understanding of the complexities of neurological care, coupled with his extensive experience, positions him as a trusted partner in your senior's health journey. As one of the most elite orthopedic practices in the country, our size and strength allows for a larger depth of knowledge. Our physicians are both generally and specialty trained. No matter how common or obscure your problem, we have the capability to offer the best treatment. Dr. Michael Thomas provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Michael Thomas is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Thomas is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive neurological care with a focus on understanding each individual's unique needs. He expertly diagnoses and manages complex conditions like dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke, and neuropathy, collaborating closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes and maintain the highest quality of life for seniors.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Michael Thomas can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO
- Cigna PPO
- LocalPlus
- Open Access Plus
- Seamless HMO
- Superior Health Plan
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Michael Thomas provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Brain Aneurysm: Managing a brain aneurysm may involve regular check-ups and lifestyle modifications, such as managing blood pressure, to keep you safe and comfortable.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak (CSF Leak): Experiencing a cerebrospinal fluid leak can be concerning, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, such as patching the leak or blood patch, you can reduce your headaches, regain your comfort and maintain a good quality of life.
- Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Diabetic polyneuropathy is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet, but careful blood sugar control and supportive therapies can ease symptoms and help maintain your independence.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: If neck pain is interfering with your daily life, it may be cervical radiculopathy, a treatable condition that can be managed with medical care to lessen pain and restore function.
- Brain Disorders: Brain disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting cognitive function, movement, and overall well-being, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
- Nerve Root Injury and Plexus Disorders (incl. Pinched Nerve): Experiencing pain, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs might be due to a pinched nerve or other nerve disorder; appropriate treatment, including medication and therapy, can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A build-up of fluid in the brain, even with normal pressure, can lead to normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), causing walking problems, memory changes, and bladder issues; however, it's often treatable, improving daily function and lessening the burden on caregivers.
- Cerebral Artery Thrombosis: A blood clot forming in a brain artery (cerebral artery thrombosis) can disrupt blood supply, leading to stroke symptoms; treatment focuses on quickly dissolving the clot to restore blood flow and reduce long-term disability.
- Cervical Spine Myelopathy: Cervical spine myelopathy affects the spinal cord in your neck, and symptoms like clumsiness or hand weakness can impact daily tasks. Treatment aims to reduce pressure on the spinal cord, potentially restoring function and improving independence.
- Cerebrovascular Disease: Cerebrovascular disease refers to conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain, sometimes leading to reduced blood flow and potentially causing strokes or other brain damage, but with proper management, many individuals can maintain their independence and quality of life.
- Epilepsy: If you or someone you care for has been diagnosed with epilepsy, know that with regular monitoring, appropriate medication, and a proactive approach to seizure management, you can maintain your independence and enjoy a fulfilling life.
- Herniated Disc: Managing a herniated disc often involves pain relief methods like medication, physical therapy, and sometimes injections to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Michael Thomas offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Facet Blocks: As part of a comprehensive pain management plan, facet blocks help doctors diagnose the cause of back pain in older adults by temporarily relieving pain from specific spinal areas.
- Nerve Destruction by Neurolytic Agent: This procedure involves using a neurolytic agent to destroy specific nerves, providing targeted relief from persistent pain that hasn't responded to other treatments in older adults.
- Peripheral Nerve Block: Peripheral nerve blocks can be a valuable tool in determining whether surgery is necessary to manage persistent nerve pain in older individuals, avoiding unnecessary procedures.
- Somatic Nerve Block: A somatic nerve block is a procedure that can help pinpoint the source of nerve pain in seniors, guiding more effective treatment plans.
- Spinal Nerve Block: As part of a comprehensive care plan for nerve-related pain, your doctor might suggest a spinal nerve block to both reduce your symptoms and help determine the best long-term strategy.
- Spinal Injections: For seniors with persistent back or leg pain, spinal injections may offer targeted pain relief, improving mobility and quality of life.
- Blood Patch: To address spinal fluid leaks causing headaches after procedures like spinal taps, a blood patch offers a safe and effective treatment option for seniors, promoting comfort and recovery.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Neurology in Florida.
Dr. Michael Thomas is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- Following regular check-ups and lifestyle adjustments, a senior felt significantly more secure at home, able to enjoy familiar activities without the worry of sudden symptoms.
- After experiencing debilitating headaches, a senior felt a renewed sense of security and comfort at home, thanks to the expert guidance in managing their cerebrospinal fluid leak. A blood patch procedure, combined with supportive care, allowed them to resume their beloved hobbies and enjoy a more fulfilling life.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (Neurosurgery)
Here are answers to some common questions about Neurological care with Dr. Michael Thomas:
- What is a Neurologist, and when should a senior see one?
- Dr. Thomas is a neurologist, a medical doctor specializing in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Older adults should consider seeing a neurologist if they have concerns about significant memory loss, Parkinson's disease, stroke, persistent dizziness, or nerve pain. Dr. Thomas is an expert in diagnosing and managing complex neurological issues in older adults.
- My parent seems confused and is forgetting things. How can Dr. Michael Thomas help?
- Dr. Thomas specializes in evaluating memory and cognitive changes to determine the cause. He can diagnose conditions like Alzheimer's or other dementias, rule out other medical issues, and create a comprehensive management plan to support both you and your loved one.
- What can I expect during a neurological exam?
- During your neurological exam with Dr. Thomas, you can expect a series of simple, painless tests to check your strength, coordination, reflexes, balance, and memory. This helps Dr. Thomas understand how your nervous system is functioning.
- Can family members be involved in the appointments and care planning?
- Absolutely. For neurological care, especially with cognitive issues, family involvement is vital. Dr. Thomas welcomes family participation, with the patient's permission, to ensure everyone understands the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- What can be done for 'essential tremor'?
- Essential tremor, while sometimes frustrating, is a different condition than Parkinson's disease. We can often manage it effectively with medications like beta-blockers or therapies, aiming to reduce the tremor and improve your ability to perform daily tasks like writing or drinking.
- How do you manage Parkinson's disease in older adults?
- Dr. Thomas's approach to Parkinson's in older adults is holistic, prioritizing quality of life. Medications manage motor symptoms like tremors and stiffness, and we coordinate closely with physical and occupational therapists to improve balance, mobility, and home safety.
- What happens after a stroke?
- Dr. Thomas will work with you to identify the cause of your stroke, prescribe medications to reduce your risk of future strokes, and coordinate with rehabilitation specialists to help you regain lost function.
- What is a 'lumbar puncture' or 'spinal tap'?
- A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is a procedure where a small sample of cerebrospinal fluid is collected from your lower back. This fluid helps diagnose conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or certain neurological infections. It's a common and safe way to obtain important information about your health.
628 Maitland Ave
Altamonte Springs FL 32701
Phone: (321) 972-2932
Dr. Michael Thomas, DO is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1588673461
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Neurology like Dr. Michael Thomas are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.