Local care, world-class results. Neurosurgery expertise you can trust.

Back or neck pain can change the way you move, sleep, work, and live. At Winona Health Neurosurgery, you don’t just get advanced spine and neurosurgical care—you get a team that listens first, explains clearly, and treats you like a person, not a condition.

Here, expert neurosurgery and genuine kindness go hand in hand. Because a highly skilled surgeon with a highly kind heart doesn’t just treat symptoms—he helps you get your life back.

World-class results shouldn’t require a long drive. At Winona Health Neurosurgery, you can get the advanced treatment you need—right here in Winona, the community you know and trust. Whether you’re struggling with back or neck pain, sciatica, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, recovering from an injury, or facing a more complex condition, we’re here to help you get back to doing the things you love.

Meet your Neurosurgeon: John Styliaras, MD, MHA, MS

Board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Styliaras specializes in treating a full range of spine and neurological conditions. With extensive training in both minimally invasive and traditional neurosurgical procedures, he provides patients with expert evaluation, thoughtful treatment planning, and highly personalized care.

Whether surgery is needed or not, Dr. Styliaras focuses on helping each patient regain comfort, confidence, and quality of life. He uses the least invasive methods possible—surgery is sometimes the right answer, but not always. Education and communication are essential parts of healing, and patients are empowered to make informed decisions about their treatment. You’ll walk out with a plan.

John C. Styliaras, MD, MHA, MS

When should you see a neurosurgeon?

Most people are surprised to learn that seeing a neurosurgeon does not automatically mean surgery is the next step. In fact, one of the most common reasons to see a neurosurgeon is to explore nonsurgical options first—including physical therapy, medications, or pain management injections. Consider a neurosurgical consultation if you have:

  • Back or neck pain that isn’t improving
  • Pain that radiates into your arms, legs, or hips
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands or feet
  • Loss of balance or difficulty walking
  • Long-term pain that affects sleep, work, or daily activities
  • A diagnosis that may require surgical evaluation (ex: herniated disc, spinal stenosis)

A consultation with a neurosurgeon may be exactly what’s needed to evaluate options and find relief.

Looking for solutions? A consultation with a Neurosurgeon may be just what you need.

These are just some of the issues you should consult our neurosurgeon about:

Spine & back conditions

  • Chronic low back pain and sciatica
  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spinal stenosis (lumbar or cervical)
  • Degenerative spondylolisthesis
  • Cervical radiculopathy
  • Neck pain with arm weakness or numbness
  • Neurogenic claudication
  • Lumbar radiculopathy & sciatica

Treatment options: Surgical and nonsurgical At Winona Health Neurosurgery, treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Your care plan may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Medications and anti-inflammatory treatments
  • Pain management or steroid injections
  • Minimally invasive spine surgery
  • Traditional spine surgery when needed
  • Advanced procedures including but not limited to spinal fusion, lumbar decompression

We start with conservative options—and surgery is only recommended when it’s truly the best path forward.

Why choose Winona Health Neurosurgery?

  • World-class, local results—no long drives or big system stress
  • Board-certified expertise
  • Full continuum of care in Winona: Primary care, Imaging, PT, pain management, surgery, and follow-up
  • Minimally invasive surgical options when possible
  • Personal attention from people who know you
  • Clear explanations, honest options and time for questions
Dr. Styliaras is one of the kindest physicians I have ever known. He was empathic and kind whenever we had consultations, and I would recommend him to anyone who needs neurosurgery of any kind. He is respectful to his patients and generous with his time.
Carol A.

Frequently asked questions

A neurosurgeon is a specialist trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the spine, and nervous system. Being referred to a neurosurgeon by your primary care provider doesn’t automatically mean you need surgery—it means you’ll receive a thorough evaluation, including a neurological exam, review of your symptoms and medical history, and any necessary diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI.

At your first appointment, Dr. Styliaras will listen carefully, explain what’s going on, answer your questions, and discuss all available treatment options—whether nonsurgical, surgical, or a combination. This ensures you have a clear understanding and can make informed decisions about your care.

Some helpful ones include: • What are all my treatment options? • Do I need surgery now, or can I try nonsurgical care first? • What risks and benefits should I know about? • What is your experience with this specific procedure? • How long is recovery? • Will I need physical therapy afterward?

No. While neurosurgeons are trained in brain surgery, most procedures he will perform are actually spine-related. Neurosurgeons complete years of specialized training focused on the spine, spinal cord, and nerves—making them experts in treating back and neck problems that affect movement, pain, and daily function.

Ready to get answers—and relief?

You don’t have to live with ongoing pain or uncertainty. A consultation with Dr. Styliaras can help you understand what’s causing your symptoms and what you can do next.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Styliaras, call 507.474.3338.

Referrals welcome, but not required. Please review individual insurance plans for specific plan-based requirements.

Learn more about surgical services at Winona Health:

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