Nerve Decompression surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure relieve pressure on the pinched or entrapped nerve.

Dr. Darren Silvester or Dr. Gregory Larsen will determine which nerve is causing your pain, and will consider all conservative options first.

However, surgery may be the best course of action to relieve pressure and restore your feet. Nerve decompression surgery is a broad category of procedures, but each has the same end goal—fully-functioning feet.

During the procedure, the doctor will preserve the nerve by expanding the area around it. This is called a release. The name makes sense, because the nerve is literally being released from the pressure that has resulted in your symptoms. In the case of tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tarsal tunnel which houses the tibial nerve, is cleared. This allows the nerve to do its job without interference from its surroundings.

This surgical intervention is typically done as an outpatient procedure. The incision is small, but you will need to stay off of your feet during the week after surgery. Plan to rest at home with your foot elevated during that time, and then proceed with caution until you are cleared for normal activity. As with any surgery, there are some risks, and following the detailed after-care plan is your best bet for a full and speedy recovery. Cheating on rest and care could result in further need for treatment.

Nerves that are affected by swelling or compression are often the result of a tumor or inflammation of the area around the nerve. In the feet, we commonly see patients who are experiencing the effects of Morton’s neuroma or tarsal tunnel syndrome. In both cases, the affected nerve is under extreme pressure.

Dr. Silvester and Dr. Larsen have additional certifications in nerve surgery. He has undergone specialized training in the treatment of painful nerve conditions. The organization called The Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons (AENS) provides advanced training in the medical, physiological, and surgical treatment of nerve conditions.

Through this organization and other ongoing medical education, our doctors chose to specialize in the treatment of these difficult and perplexing conditions. Dr. Silvester achieved adequate surgical experience and demonstrated proficiency in the procedure, and is now a Fellow of the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons.