Nerve Decompression
You do not need to live in pain
At Wigley Feet, we have extensive experience and can apply treatments like nerve decompression to remove pressure and relieve pain.
If you have been suffering from pain or numbness due to a pinched nerve, it may be time to talk to Dr. Wigley about nerve decompression, a minimally-invasive surgery used to treat pinched nerves from various conditions.
Learn more about Compression Neuropathy
A large nerve called the tibial nerve crosses behind your ankle on the inside of your foot and around your heel pad, and into your arch to supply sensation to the bottom of your foot and toes. Where the nerve passes behind the ankle, there is a tunnel between the tibia and a ligament band. The tunnel houses the tibial nerve as it branches into two nerves that go into the arch and forefoot. There is also a smaller branch that supplies sensation to the bottom of the heel.
Sometimes this area on the inside of the ankle can become swollen, congested, or scarred from overuse and injury.
Sprained or broken ankles or arthritis, cysts, or ganglions of the tendons in the ankle can result in swelling and prolonged compression on the nerves. In addition, some medical conditions are known to affect the nerves. These include rheumatoid arthritis and Lupus, alcoholism, thyroid disorders, kidney and heart conditions that cause leg swelling. Diabetes and chemotherapy can also factor in swelling of the nerves themselves.
What does compression do to the nerves?
When the nerve receives increased pressure, then blood flow to the nerve decreases. The nerve responds with altered sensations such as tingling and numbness. It may become so severe that it feels as if the foot is asleep. Often the symptoms are worse after standing or walking when mild swelling can occur within the tarsal tunnel. The small muscles cramp as they lose their nerve supply. The heel will hurt just as in bone spurs or plantar fasciitis.
Treatments
Treatments of compression neuropathy, including tarsal tunnel syndrome, aim to remove the pressure off the tibial nerve and its branches. Orthoses and arch support, and ankle splints may help position the foot to relieve pressure on the nerves. You may need to alter your work or sports activities. Support stockings or ankle elastic brace will control swelling, and this often helps to provide relief.
Medications
Anti-inflammatory medications may help if the tendons are inflamed and swollen. Careful injection of a small amount of cortisone may be given. There are oral medications useful for treating neuropathic pain. These are Elavil, Dilantin, Neurontin, Tegretal, and Lyrica. New prescription B vitamins called Metanx has also helped with painful neuropathy, and without the side effects of some of the above mentioned drugs.
Surgery
We approach surgery as the last resort.
Wigley Feet has its very own level-one AAAASF Surgical Faciliy offering concierge style care for everyone in a private setting.