Get Answers to Your Questions in Our Nerve Damage and Surgery FAQ

If you're living with peripheral nerve pain, you might be wondering why a plastic surgeon could be the right specialist to help you. This is a valid question to ask, given that the general public tends to associate plastic surgery with cosmetic surgery. However, plastic surgeons can be well-equipped to treat peripheral nerve pain that is negatively affecting your quality of life.

Dr. Eric H. Williams completed his plastic surgery residency at the University of Alabama in Birmingham in June 2006. He then turned his attention to peripheral nerve surgery, completing another full year in fellowship training with Dr. A. Lee Dellon, a world-renowned specialist in peripheral nerve surgery, in 2007. His practice currently focuses on the surgical care and rehabilitation of lower extremity and upper extremity complex peripheral nerve syndromes with an emphasis on nerve injury and entrapment. This includes treating conditions such as common peroneal nerve compression, meralgia paresthetica, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and migraines related to nerve compression.

How Plastic Surgery Has Evolved Over Time

Plastic surgeons are known for their creative expertise in soft tissue injuries, many of which involve damage to the surrounding nerves. While cosmetic surgery has become a significant part of their practice in recent years, their roots actually lie in reconstructive surgery. This medical specialty began by treating major war injuries like those seen in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and Vietnam. The patient’s survival was the priority, not aesthetics.

Over time, plastic surgeons have perfected techniques first learned on the battlefield to improve the normal functions of the body. This can involve cosmetic procedures like eliminating wrinkles or reconstructing breasts after mastectomies, but it can also involve addressing pain caused by compression or injury to the peripheral nerves. 

Interestingly, approximately one-third of plastic surgeons practicing today are also trained hand surgeons. As a result, they receive comprehensive training in nerve injuries. The American Society for Peripheral Nerve (ASPN) has further fueled this interest, as it challenges plastic surgeons to become better at treating patients with peripheral nerve issues.

Why Plastic Surgeons Shine When It Comes to Treating Nerve Injuries

Plastic surgeons are not the only medical professionals who operate on peripheral nerves. However, since plastic surgeons operate all over the body, they have a broader perspective on soft tissue issues—including those involving peripheral nerves.

Other reasons plastic surgeons like Dr. Williams are well-equipped to treat peripheral nerve issues include:

• Specialized training. Despite being a subspecialty within plastic surgery, there is a growing community of plastic surgeons dedicated to peripheral nerve surgery. They receive specialized training and employ techniques that have proven to be effective in surgically stopping chronic pain related to nerve compression or other nerve injuries 
• Compassion and empathy. Plastic surgeons are often drawn to this field due to their desire to alleviate the suffering of their patients. Their compassion and empathy drive them to find solutions that genuinely work.
• A desire for continuous improvement. Plastic surgeons interested in peripheral nerve issues are continuously refining their techniques. Learning from past experiences and adapting as needed, they aim to provide better outcomes for their patients.

Plastic Surgeons Can Offer a Permanent Solution to Nerve-Related Dysfunction

Traditionally, pain management teams including physiatrists and anesthesiologists have treated nerve pain with medications, injections, or electrical stimulation. Medications can have their place, but opioids like OxyContin can cause more harm than good. Medications also focus on temporary symptom relief instead of fixing the underlying issue that is causing the death of the nerve. 

Imagine that your child is crying because they broke their arm, and you decide to stick a gag in their mouth. They’ll stop crying, but the gag isn’t doing anything to treat the broken arm. It’s only creating new problems by making it harder for your son or daughter to breathe. The sensible thing to do as a parent is to treat the injury itself.

When a nerve is being compressed or pinched, surgical nerve decompression relieves the excess pressure on the nerve. This reduces pain and restores mobility.  If a nerve is physically injured, then it makes better sense to try to fix or repair the nerve if it is possible. While this is not always possible, many patients are too easily overlooked for procedures that might treat the underlying problem.   

If the correct diagnosis is made, and a repair, decompression, or treatment of the injured or compressed nerve is performed, then in many cases, patients are no longer dependent on pain medication to make it through the day. To learn more about the results Dr. Williams has been able to achieve with his patients, refer to the testimonials section of our website. 

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a type of nerve damage that affects the extremities in people with diabetes. It is caused by high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves over time. The condition can affect people in different ways but is often described as: 

• Tingling in the feet and hands
• Intense burning
• Severe pins and needles
• Feeling like your feet are covered in ants
• Feeling like you’re walking on barbed wire
• An overall feeling of numbness that makes it hard to keep your balance

Until recently, it was felt that DPN was an incurable disease that was irreversible and would progressively worsen over time. Treatments typically focus on managing symptoms and preventing further damage. This often includes diet, exercise, and medication. We agree with aggressive control of blood sugar levels as the mainstay of trying to slow or halt the progression of symptoms. We are also thankful that there are some medications that can improve painful symptoms of neuropathy symptoms, but treatment doesn’t need to stop here. 

Over the past 15 years, there has been a growing level of evidence from different physicians and countries that surgical decompression of the affected nerves can have a profound effect on the health of the nerves badly affected by changes associated with DPN. It has been shown that diabetes causes sugar to move into the nerves itself. This sugar then can not get out and it brings water with it. Imagine how your fingers swell after eating a bunch of salty food.  How hard is it to get a ring off the finger? Why is that? Well, the finger swells but the ring around it does not change size. This is exactly what happens when the nerve swells, but the tunnel that the nerve travels through does not get bigger. The blood supply to the nerve gets cut off.  

It is not rocket science to determine what can happen next. Less blood flow equals less function.   Nerves start dying. When nerves start dying, they start talking to you to let you know it—they burn, they tingle, they send shocks, they lose feeling, and the muscles stop working.  

There are entire textbooks on all the other changes that occur in a nerve due to diabetes. Surgeons are not able to help many changes that can occur, but the work done by Dr. Dellon and others in the past 15 years has reinforced the idea that many of the symptoms that well-controlled diabetic patients complain about can improve by taking pressure off the nerves as they travel through tight tunnels in the hands and feet. Therefore, if your blood sugar is stable, nerve decompression surgery may be a part of your recommended treatment plan. 

Although surgery can’t completely reverse the nerve damage caused by DPN, it can help to alleviate pain and improve function in your feet and hands. Allowing the nerve to recover significantly can lead to improved sensation, better balance, prevention of ulcers, and less pain.   

Now these procedures are not a panacea, and they are not a “get out of jail free” card.  If a patient allows their diabetes to spiral out of control, if a patient chooses to continue to smoke after it has been recommended to stop, or if a patient fails to take their health seriously, these procedures will have a high failure rate.   

Remember, the surgery addresses one problem of the entire complex picture of DPN: we focus on the swollen nerve in the tight tunnel. We also know that the longer the nerve has been affected and the more severe the disease has been, the less likely it becomes that the surgery will work—as the nerves have just been injured too long. It is hard to bring a nerve back from the dead. However, we can help a nerve that is dying if we get there soon enough.

If you’ve been unable to enjoy your favorite activities and spend time with loved ones because of pain from diabetic peripheral neuropathy, contact our office to see if nerve decompression might be an appropriate treatment option. Since 2007, Dr. Eric H. Williams has focused his medical practice on the surgical care and rehabilitation of lower extremity and upper extremity complex peripheral nerve syndromes, emphasizing nerve injury, entrapment, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy.  

How Does Nerve Decompression Surgery Help Diabetic Neuropathy?

Nerve decompression surgery may be used to treat the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy by relieving pressure on compressed nerves in the extremities. This pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, such as swelling of the nerve in a very tight tunnel, scar tissue, or trauma.

The goal of nerve decompression surgery is to identify and release the compressed nerve or nerves, allowing them to function normally again. This may involve making incisions in the affected area to access the nerve or nerves, followed by the removal of any sources of pressure or irritation, including tight fibrous tissue, and in some cases extra muscles. 

After nerve decompression surgery, you will likely need to limit your activity and wear a protective device or dressing to help protect the surgical site as it heals. Your surgeon may also recommend physical therapy or other rehabilitation exercises to help restore normal function to the affected nerve.

Research has shown that nerve decompression surgery can effectively reduce pain and improve sensation in people with symptoms from diabetic neuropathy, particularly in those with compression of the tibial or common peroneal and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves in the legs and the median and ulnar nerves in the legs or arms. 

However, not all cases of diabetic neuropathy can be improved with nerve decompression, and the effectiveness of nerve decompression surgery may vary depending on the individual case. 

Our Results Speak for Themselves

Our Baltimore surgical practice provides comprehensive care for those who suffer from peripheral nerve injuries, entrapments, and chronic pain or dysfunction. This includes people with nerve pain related to diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If you’d like to learn more about how we’ve helped others like you alleviate the painful symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and get back to making the most of each day, we encourage you to review our patient testimonials. 

For example, Dr. Williams helped a man with a history of diabetic peripheral neuropathy with entrapment of the tibial nerve at the tarsal tunnel as well as the proximal tibial nerve in the calf. The patient had diabetes for three years and struggled with numbness and pain for approximately 10 years. After nerve decompression surgery, he saw substantially reduced numbness, tingling, buzzing, and pain in his toes. Watch this testimonial video to learn more about this patient’s nerve decompression experience. 

Another one of our patients was similarly thrilled with her results just one week out from a tarsal tunnel release and decompression of the medial plantar, lateral plantar, and calcaneal nerves. Her previous care providers told her she had irreversible diabetic neuropathy, so she wondered if she’d simply be expected to live with numbness and pain forever. Then, after seeing Dr. Williams, she found hope for a brighter future. Even though it takes several weeks to see maximum results, she noticed substantial improvement in sensation just one week after her nerve decompression surgery. Watch this testimonial video to learn how nerve decompression helped improve her quality of life. 

 

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can affect many organ systems, but this article refers to patients who have tingling, numbness, and pain in the feet and hands. Their symptoms are typically worse in the feet and have been described by some as intense burning, severe pins and needles, feet covered in ants, or walking on barbed wire. Some will complain of numbness and loss of balance. 

Patients tend to ignore these symptoms for long periods of time. Only when their condition is severely affecting their quality of life do they seek out medical attention. 

There are many different medications that have been tried to treat these painful symptoms, and some will be successful. However, research over the past 10 years performed and confirmed by several different teams in several countries has demonstrated that many patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and treated only with medications also have nerve compressions in the feet and hands. This nerve compression may be the chief cause of their painful symptoms as well as the numbness that occurs. 

We know that decompressing a nerve that is pinched is the best way to treat a compressed nerve. Therefore, one solution for relief for patients suffering from symptoms of diabetic neuropathy might be adding nerve decompression treatment to the other standard treatment measures. However, finding the right physician is vital. You need to work with an experienced peripheral nerve surgeon to create an effective treatment plan to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.

Tips for Finding the Best Doctor for Diabetic Neuropathy

Take the following suggestions into account. Then, you can rest assured that you have the information you need to research professionals capable of providing quality care tailored to your needs.

Ask Your Primary Care Physician for a Referral 

After assessing your condition, your primary care physician can refer you to a specialist with experience in treating diabetic neuropathy pain.  This should include a referral to a peripheral nerve surgeon for evaluation. You may have to ask specifically for this referral as the published research on surgical management is still not widely circulated in the primary care fields, despite 15 years of pioneering research and publications of physicians like Dr. A. Lee Dellon, MD Ph.D.  

Talk to Friends and Family

If you know someone who suffers from pain due to diabetic neuropathy, ask them for a referral, along with what treatment methods were used and the type of results they achieved.

Do Thorough Research

You can search online for doctors in your area who specialize in treating diabetic neuropathy. You can look for peripheral nerve surgeons in your area. Look for physicians who have experience with this condition and positive patient reviews and testimonials. You may even consider watching videos on the doctor’s website to learn how nerve decompression helped other patients manage their neuropathy pain.

Look for Education and Experience

While some physicians might generally treat diabetes for daily management, others provide solutions that require more experience. Dr. Williams is a board-certified plastic surgeon with additional fellowship training in peripheral nerve surgery. He specializes in nerve compression surgery in diabetic patients as well as non-diabetic patients.  

What to Ask Potential Doctors

Once you narrow down the options, schedule in-person appointments with doctors who specialize in treating diabetic neuropathy. At your consultation, here are some key questions to ask: 

• What specific qualifications do you have to treat diabetic neuropathy pain? 
• How long have you been treating patients like me?
• What makes your practice unique and different from others in the area?
• What tests will be done to diagnose my diabetic neuropathy?
• What are the different treatment options for diabetic neuropathy, and which do you recommend for me?
• Who’s an ideal candidate for nerve decompression surgery?
• How successful have treatments such as nerve decompression been for other patients with diabetic neuropathy pain?
• What lifestyle changes can I make to manage my diabetic neuropathy symptoms?
• What are the potential complications of diabetic neuropathy, and how can I prevent them?
• How often should I schedule follow-up appointments to monitor my condition?

The answers each doctor provides and the level of comfort you experience help determine if they’re a good match for you. Remember, to ensure you receive the best possible care, arrive prepared for each appointment with your concerns and ask for specific treatment solutions. Dr. Williams will take the time necessary to address all issues and, after evaluating your individual symptoms and needs, determine the proper course of treatment.

Don’t Deal With Chronic Pain Any Longer

If you’re looking for a doctor to treat diabetic neuropathy, contact Dr. Eric H. Williams today. He’s a peripheral nerve expert who specializes in pain relief and reconstructive surgery, and will thoroughly assess your condition to determine if nerve decompression or another service can provide the relief you need. Find out more by calling our Baltimore office at (410) 709-3868 or by filling out our convenient online contact form.

Diabetic neuropathy is a severe diabetic complication that can cause pain and numbness in your extremities as well as other uncomfortable side effects. There are several different types of the condition, and if left untreated, they might lead to more grave health issues such as organ damage and even amputation. 

Pay attention to the signs of diabetic neuropathy and take action if you suspect you’re affected. The earlier you identify symptoms, the easier it is to address the condition and protect yourself from further complications. For example, to reduce the pain and symptoms associated with different types of diabetic neuropathy, Dr. Williams might recommend nerve decompression to relieve pressure on the affected nerve so you can return to enjoying the activities you once did.

Four Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy occurs in various parts of the body, and it’s also possible to have more than one affected area and various symptoms. Additionally, for some patients, neuropathy happens gradually over time and isn’t noticeable until nerve damage has occurred.

The four types of diabetic neuropathy are:

• Peripheral. This is the most common condition, which affects the feet and legs first, and then the hands and arms. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and burning sensations.
• Autonomic. This impacts the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and bladder control. Symptoms include but aren’t limited to changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and digestive function.
• Proximal. This form of neuropathy occurs primarily in the hips, buttocks, and thighs, presenting symptoms such as pain, weakness, and difficulty moving.
• Mononeuropathy. This type affects a single nerve, most commonly in the face, torso, or leg, with symptoms like sudden weakness or pain in the affected area.

It's important to note that not everyone with diabetes develops neuropathy, and symptoms and severity of the condition vary widely among individuals. But if you’ve had a persistent problem with any of the symptoms outlined above, talk with your primary care provider to determine the underlying cause so the right treatment plan can be developed based on your specific needs. You might also need to consult with another medical specialist to rule out other non-peripheral nerve-related conditions.

Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment Options

If you’re suffering from diabetic nerve pain or other symptoms of neuropathy, such as burning or tingling, nerve decompression surgery may be a potential solution. By undergoing nerve decompression surgery, it’s possible to find relief from these painful symptoms. 

The surgery works by improving blood flow to damaged nerves throughout the body. By increasing circulation and reducing pressure on the nerves, surgeons can successfully reduce pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. Patients often report significant improvements in their quality of life after the surgery. 

Unfortunately, if left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can cause serious problems such as foot ulcers, infection, and amputation. Don’t wait to seek treatment until it’s too late. Dr. Williams can determine if nerve decompression surgery is the right option for you. However, not every person is a candidate for the procedure. Here are some of the key factors that determine your eligibility: 

• Your A1C level must be less than 8.5, and your diabetes must be well-controlled
• A weight of under 350 pounds
• No uncontrolled swelling or restricted blood flow in your feet
• No open or unhealed wounds
• The severity of the nerve damage

Contact Our Baltimore Office Today

If you’re concerned that diabetic neuropathy is affecting your quality of life, contact Dr. Williams today. He specializes in diabetic nerve decompression treatments to help reduce symptoms and increase mobility over time. Find out more by calling our office at 410-709-3868 or filling out our convenient online contact form.

Why does the tarsal tunnel syndrome cause so much pain?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve and its branches of the medial plantar, lateral plantar, and calcaneal nerves get compressed or pinched.    Essentially the compression of nerve can occur from structural changes, trauma, extra muscles that you are born with, an enlarged nerve, and a variety of other cause.   Essentially there is just not enough room in a very tight space for the nerve to continue to function properly.   This leads to decreased blood flow or decreased ability for the nerve to get the appropriate nutrients and supplies it needs to function properly, and then it does the same thing that all nerves do when they stop working well…..  It talks to you!   Numbness, burning pain, tingling, buzzing, “creepy crawlies” can occur, or weakness, and muscle atrophy, loss of balance can also eventually set in.   Why some patients experience some of these symptoms while others do not is a bit of a mystery.

What is a typical recovery like after release of the tarsal tunnel and the medial plantar, lateral plantar, and calcaneal nerves?   

Most patients report that they actually do quite well after tarsal tunnel surgery, but some will struggle more than others. Because there is an incision on the inside of the ankle, and because the ankle does move, this is usually the source of most of the discomfort. Some physicians prefer to splint the foot after surgery to all the skin to rest and in an effort to improve the pain.   This is in general a good idea for orthopedic type procedures where the surgeon wants the foot to remain still so that bones heal, and that ligaments and tendons that were operated on or sutured together heal in with scar tissue like glue.  But when we consider nerve surgery we DON’T WANT SCAR TISSUE TO FORM AROUND NERVES, so it is very important to get the foot moving quickly.  Think of this as steel reinforced concrete.   The nerve is the rebar and the scar is the concrete.   We DON’T want steel reinforced concrete, we don’t want the nerve getting stuck in the scar tissue, so it won’t move or glide back and forth. We want to start making a tract for that nerve to move almost from the first day that we are done operating.  But we don’t want the skin to break down either.   So we have to play a delicate balancing act.   Ask the patient to move the ankle, but not use the ankle too much.  Ask the patient to move the foot, which may be uncomfortable, but allow the patient enough support, so they are not miserable.    We wrap the foot after tarsal tunnel release with a large cotton dressing that looks kind of like a giant cotton ball.   This bulky dressing is soft and moves with the patient but is sturdy enough not to fall apart.  It allows the patient to weight bear with some force, but it is annoying enough to keep them from running around the house.   It is soft enough that it won’t bother the person next to you in bed, but it is firm enough to be supportive and protect the incision.    

Will I need crutches after surgery? 

Yes. As we age, however, crutches can get a bit unwieldy, and so frequently, we will recommend a walker for those who have a bit more difficulty getting around.  Nearly all folks will need crutches at least until the dressing comes off after one week. Remember, we don’t want the patient to break the incision open because they are walking too much. About half the patients will no longer be using crutches at three weeks after the surgery when they come to have their incision evaluated and the sutures removed. A few stragglers will need crutches for about a month. If you need them longer than this, you are really struggling, and we will need to re-evaluate and make sure that everything is okay and determine if physical therapy would be beneficial for you.   

May I shower after surgery? 

I do expect patients to shower after surgery.  Patients will typically have to use a protective “cast bag” or large plastic bag around their leg to protect the giant water-absorptive cotton ball that is wrapped around their leg.  It is not fun when this gets wet – so don’t get it wet.  Have a plastic dressing placed over the incision that will allow them to shower.  But we do not allow patients to take a bath for about two weeks.

Can I wash my tarsal tunnel incision after my dressing comes off?  

Yes. You may wash the suture line with hibaclens soap (antibacterial soap) daily.  We then ask the patient to paint the incision with Betadine or Iodine to keep it clean and cover it with a large bandaid to protect it.  Putting an ace bandage on the foot at this time can also help keep the post-op swelling down. 

Do I need physical therapy after surgery after Tarsal tunnel release?  

This is a very personalized answer.  Some patients have had a wonderful experience with physical therapy while others have not.  Some patients will prefer to “do it on my own.”  While other patients will really like to have someone “helping them along.”  We are happy to recommend physical therapy when patients feel that this will be a major benefit for them.  I do think there is an advantage to this.  However, we also acknowledge that some patients will be able to control their own recovery well with a graded gentle return to activities.  We discourage any strenuous activities for about six weeks, but walking on even ground, walking on a treadmill, or elliptical trainer can be very helpful in increasing one’s activity AFTER the sutures have come out three weeks after surgery.   We generally will not start physical therapy until this time.    We strongly encourage walking on land and in a pool starting 3.5 weeks after surgery to help you recover well.  REMEMBER:  we don’t want patients busting open their incisions, so we ask patients to “walk for the needs, and not their wants” for the first three weeks.  

Can I drive after my tarsal tunnel release? 

Eventually you can return to driving.  But let’s use some common sense. 

1.  If we operate on the right foot and you have sutures in the ankle, then you are going to be moving that ankle a lot.   That is great for getting the nerve to move back and forth, but that is NOT great for the incision, which has sutures that can cut through the skin.  So if you have surgery on the RIGHT foot, it will be a bit longer before you can drive.  

2.  Common sense helps here as well.  If you are stoned on drugs – NO, you cannot drive.  3.  If your pain is more than you can tolerate and you are distracted by it – NO, you can not drive.  Most people who have their LEFT FOOT operated on can start to drive somewhere between 10-14 days after surgery. RIGHT FOOT is a bit longer.   BUT Everyone is different.  

The MOST IMPORTANT thing to remember is SAFETY!   Do not put yourself or others around you in danger.  Please use common sense.  If your spouse or family member won’t get in the car with you when you want to drive — then you should not be driving!   However, if they won’t ride with you PRIOR to surgery –  I can’t help you there…  You are on your own.      

When will I know if I am better after tarsal tunnel release?  

This is a complicated question. As one can imagine, there is NOT one correct answer here, and believe it or not – you will be telling your doctor when you are better!  However, in our experience, some patients will see relief from the minute they wake up. Others will get relief slowly over time.  Still, others may not get the relief that they were hoping for at all.   However, our experience is that most patients (85%) will eventually get improvements within weeks to months.   It is also common to continue to see improvements over time. We encourage patience, as those who have had symptoms for many years may take longer to improve.  We encourage patients to wait 6-12 months before trying to find and search out “other” causes for their pain because it can take time to see improvements, especially in particularly challenging situations.  

When can I return to work after tarsal tunnel release surgery? 

Again, this is a very individualized question.   If you are a sedentary worker and do mostly desk work, and you can work from home, then most patients may feel up to returning to work after about a week.   If the home option is not available, then it may take anywhere from 1-3 weeks.  If you have a heavy manual labor type position and are in significantly dangerous situations, then it may take up to 2-3 months.  If you have a position where you are expected to walk around for an extended period every day but are not in a particularly dangerous environment, you will probably be looking at about 3-4 weeks, but again everyone is different. The main point here is to make sure that you are SAFE to return to your work, and to be kind to yourself, while not taking advantage of your employer.    Your safety and your recovery are our priority, but we also want to be socially responsible as well.  

Will I be able to return to sports or activities like hiking, yoga, running, etc.?    

Well, it helps if you were active in these areas BEFORE the operation! But in general we do expect patients to get back to many if not all of the activities that they enjoyed prior to surgery. We strongly encourage walking on land and in a pool for several weeks after surgery to help you recover well.  It may take up to three months before you can be expected to have unrestricted activities.   

What kind of pain can I expect after a Tarsal Tunnel release surgery?

The pain after tarsal tunnel release seems to be very reasonable for nearly all patients. There are always the two ends of the spectrum. There are the patients that do have a very high pain threshold, as well as those with a very low pain threshold. But most patients do very well with a mixture of several medications. We encourage a cocktail of medications, both over the counter as well as prescription medications. We typically start with extra strength Tylenol and motrin alternating these throughout the day.  Then we add to this Gabapentin or lyrica for their treatment of nerve pain. We encourage ice on the surgical site intermittently, and then finally patients are given a prescription for a stronger narcotic medication that they may take if they are still experiencing pain that is not well controlled.  Some of our patients never take a pill of the narcotic, but most will take a few tablets. 

What will I need after my Tarsal Tunnel surgery?  

You will need crutches or a cane or walker for a few days to steady your gait. Some people who want to return to work early or who have long distances to walk may want to use a rolling scooter for some of the time they are up and about. You will need to pick up your medications for postop discomfort.  You will need a nice ice bag or two – (nothing wrong with a ziplock freezer bag.) You will need a protective cover to place over your dressing while you shower.  You will want to try to set up a place to recover that is on one floor if you can, but this is not required, but it is much easier. You will need someone to help drive and do many of your normal daily chores while you are recovering.  

When can I travel after my tarsal tunnel release?  

We do see many patients from out of town. If patients live less than two hours away from Baltimore, then they may go home after the procedure. They will need a ride as they will not be able to drive themselves. If they are driving distance, but further than two hours away, we typically ask them to spend the night in one of our local hotels. The reason we do this is in case of a complication such as bleeding, the patient can contact us and be seen quickly. Otherwise, they might be hours away and have a hard time trying to get into an emergency room with physicians that they do not know. If you are flying from out of town, we typically encourage patients not to make plans for a minimum of 24-36 hours. Again safety is our primary concern here. We want to make sure that there are no acute complications, that your pain is well controlled, and that you have plenty of time not to rush through the airport.   

If you recently had colostomy surgery and have symptoms such as burning or stabbing pain around your colostomy site, you might wonder why this pain is happening and what can be done to make it stop. Consulting an experienced nerve specialist can help you understand the various causes of colostomy site pain and if nerve reconstruction surgery is an option to treat it. 

Causes of Colostomy Site Pain

A colostomy is an opening made on the abdominal wall that connects the colon to an external collection bag. The purpose of a colostomy is to allow waste products to pass out of the body without having to go through the large intestine. This procedure is life-saving for many patients and, in some cases, can be reversed over time. 

Some patients report severe debilitating pain around the site of their colostomy. This pain is often due to intercostal nerves caught in scar tissue or even stitched when the surgeon closes the site. This can lead to irritation and inflammation that produces a burning or stabbing sensation in the area of the colostomy site. Most people experience radiating pain from the abdominal wall to the side.

Another possible cause of burning pain is post-operative inflammation due to stitches or sutures used during the procedure. As these begin to heal, they put pressure on nearby nerves, inflaming them and creating great discomfort.  

Consulting an Experienced Peripheral Nerve Surgeon

Without question, burning pain near the site of the stoma is uncomfortable, inconvenient, and disruptive to daily life. Fortunately, there are treatments for debilitating nerve pain. A peripheral nerve surgeon who specializes in pain treatment can determine the root cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. 

For example, a nerve block may be administered to rule out other potential conditions, such as a hernia. If the nerve block provides relief from the pain, then entrapment of the intercostal nerves may be to blame.

Nerve reconstruction surgery is one type of procedure Dr. Williams performs to relieve pain at the colostomy site. It involves removing the sensory nerves stuck in scar tissue and relocating them to a surgical site far from the previous one so it doesn’t occur again or form a painful neuroma. One of Dr. Williams’ patients reported up to 95 percent relief of his pain—so much so, he was able to get off all narcotic and neuropathic medications, and now only uses an over-the-counter pain reliever occasionally.

If Dr. Williams determines you’re a candidate for nerve reconstruction surgery to relieve colostomy site pain, he’ll outline the risks associated with the procedure and the results you can expect. He’ll also provide thorough answers to your questions so you can make an informed decision about your next steps.

Don't Live With Burning Colostomy Site Pain 

Life after colostomy surgery shouldn’t involve burning or stabbing pain. To learn about effective treatments that can make a difference for you, reach out to Dr. Williams for an evaluation—call our Baltimore office at 410-709-3868 or contact us online.

Related Links: Baltimore Nerve Surgeon Nerve Transfers  Baltimore Nerve Pain Neurolysis Treatment for Chronic Pain  Reasons Why a Surgical Scar May Still Hurt

 

Nerve decompression is a surgical procedure used to relieve pain caused by a compressed nerve in the body. It can be an effective treatment for some people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but it is important to understand that not everyone will benefit from the surgery. In order to make an informed decision about whether or not nerve decompression is right for you, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor.

Success of Nerve Decompression for Those With Diabetes

Even though nerve decompression can work effectively for some people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it is not an option for everyone. Those who are ideal candidates for the procedure have symptoms of numbness and tingling, either with or without the presence of pain due to peripheral neuropathy. If there is only pain without numbness or tingling, they may not be a candidate for nerve decompression.

Determining if nerve decompression surgery will be a successful option for you depends on individual factors such as:

• The severity of your nerve damage
• Whether your diabetes is well-controlled and your HgbA1c is less than 8.5
• Weighing under 350 pounds
• Not having uncontrolled swelling or restricted blood flow in your feet or any current open wounds

What to Discuss With Your Doctor Before Surgery

Before deciding if nerve decompression surgery is right for you, there are certain things you should discuss with your doctor. These include:

• Your medical history, including any past surgeries
• Any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications
• Your current level of physical activity and lifestyle habits
• Risk factors associated with nerve compression surgery, such as anesthesia risks
• Recovery time frame and post-surgical care instructions 
• Potential complications or side effects 

If you are considering nerve decompression surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Williams. He can determine if you will benefit from surgery and create a treatment plan to fit your needs. Find out more by contacting our Baltimore office at (410) 709-3868 or by filling out our contact form online.

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Diabetic nerve pain can be a debilitating condition, causing severe discomfort and making everyday activities like walking or even standing difficult. While medication is often the first course of treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy pain, the drugs can have undesirable side effects, such as weight gain and fatigue. If you are suffering from diabetic nerve pain, Dr. Williams can evaluate your condition to determine what treatments other than medication, such as nerve decompression surgery, may be an option for you to consider.

Nerve Decompression for Diabetic Nerve Pain

Nerve decompression is a surgical procedure to free compressed sections of nerves in the body to increase blood flow, allow the nerves to move more freely, and reduce pain caused by compression. This procedure has been shown to be effective for many people suffering from peripheral neuropathy by helping to relieve symptoms of nerve pain and restore mobility and function. If you are looking for an alternative to medication for diabetic nerve pain, speak with Dr. Williams about the possibility of undergoing a nerve decompression procedure.

With the proper treatment, you can regain control over your condition and live a more comfortable, pain-free life. In addition to having Dr. Williams perform nerve decompression surgery, you can do the following to manage symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy:

• Monitoring your blood sugar levels to keep them under control
• Increasing exercise and eating a healthy diet
• Quitting smoking
• Taking good care of your feet

Are You Looking for a Diabetic Nerve Pain Specialist?

If you suffer from diabetic nerve pain and are looking for treatment options other than medication, contact our office for an evaluation. Dr. Williams can determine if nerve decompression surgery is an option for you and will create a treatment plan to help ease your pain and get you back to living pain-free as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.

Related Links: Baltimore Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Compression Relief Is peripheral nerve surgery safe? Peripheral Neuropathy and Trauma

If you have pain or discomfort after knee replacement surgery, it could be part of the normal healing process. However, it should not be ignored when the pain is ongoing or becomes severe since it could indicate a more serious problem. Dr. Williams can evaluate the post-surgical pain you are experiencing to determine what treatment options may work best for your specific condition.

Why You May Have Knee Pain After Joint Replacement Surgery

Experiencing some discomfort or pain while you heal after knee replacement surgery is normal. You will likely have some pain when kneeling, bending the knee, or doing daily activities. Pain may also occur at night, but the pain should begin to subside after a few weeks. Your surgeon should have told you what to expect and might have prescribed a pain reliever to take in the days following surgery.

Chronic pain after knee replacement surgery is not normal, however. It could indicate a more serious problem, such as:

• Infection
• Blood clot
• Failed or misaligned knee implant
• Nerve damage

You Shouldn't Continue to Suffer Post-Surgical Knee Pain

Ongoing pain after knee replacement surgery should not be ignored. It is important to have any pain evaluated by the surgeon who did your knee replacement procedure to ensure that there are no problems with the alignment of the new joint or that infection is not present. If everything looks normal and there is no explanation for the pain, the issue could be nerve related, and you will want to seek the advice of Dr. Williams.

You should not have to live in pain caused by nerve damage when Dr. Williams can determine what treatment options could ease your chronic pain and have you back to enjoying your life. Dr. Williams has successfully treated and resolved nerve injuries resulting from knee replacement surgery through procedures such as knee denervation.

How to Know If Our Maryland Peripheral Nerve Specialist Can Help You

If you are suffering from ongoing knee pain after replacement surgery, contact our office for an evaluation. Dr. Williams can create a treatment plan to help ease your pain and get you back to living pain-free as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.

Related Links: Solutions to Chronic Pain Following Knee Replacement How long will it take to recover from my surgery? Peripheral Nerve Surgeon Treats Chronic Post-Operative Pain

Fasciotomy is a surgical procedure to relieve pressure in a muscle compartment caused by a condition such as chronic exertional compartment syndrome. This procedure also increases blood flow to the nerves and muscles. Our doctor explains more about fasciotomy as a treatment option for exertional compartment syndrome. 

Treating Exertional Compartment Syndrome

Exertional compartment syndrome causes pain or cramps in the front muscle compartment of the lower leg. It can occur during exercise where there are repetitive movements such as swimming, biking, or running and lessen once the activity is stopped.

There are both nonsurgical and surgical options for treating exertional compartment syndrome. Nonsurgical options are only effective if you stop or reduce the specific activity triggering the condition. Surgery may be an option if conservative methods are ineffective in resolving pain. A fasciotomy is a surgical procedure often recommended for exertional compartment syndrome. It involves cutting the tight fascia, the bands of tissue surrounding the muscles, to relieve pressure in the muscle compartment.

What to Expect From Fasciotomy

Dr. Eric H. Williams will determine if your condition is exertional compartment syndrome or another condition causing the pain. Once a diagnosis is made, Dr. Williams will recommend treatment options such as a fasciotomy. At your consultation, he will thoroughly answer your questions and prepare you for what to expect before and after surgery.

Possible Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Permanent nerve damage
• Damage to muscle or blood vessels
• Weakness or numbness
• Shedding of skin
• Scar tissue formation

Fasciotomy may not completely resolve chronic exertional compartment syndrome in some cases.

Are You Looking for a Baltimore Peripheral Nerve Specialist?

If you have chronic exertional compartment syndrome and need help, contact Dr. Williams for an evaluation. Our goal is to help ease your symptoms and get you back to enjoying your favorite activities as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at 410-709-3868, or fill out our contact form.

Related links: Baltimore Nerve Surgeon Exertional Compartment Syndrome Solutions for Exertional Compartment Syndrome in Runners Treatment of Exertional Compartment Syndrome