The nervous system is a complicated thing, with branches running throughout the body. These complex structures are responsible for communicating sensation and response to and from the brain everywhere in our body. When nerves become damaged, pinched, or compromised, several symptoms can result. Numbness, tingling, and pain are all common in minor cases. In severe cases, loss of all sensation can result.
What Is Peroneal Nerve Dysfunction?
Located in your lower back is the sciatic nerve, responsible for communicating essential information from your lower body to your brain. When this nerve becomes compromised, tingling, numbness, and pain can be the result. While being part of it, branching off of the sciatic nerve can be found the peroneal nerve. In cases where the changes in sensation are limited to the outside of the legs, feet, or ankles, it maybe this portion of the injured sciatic nerve. This condition is known as peroneal nerve dysfunction, and its symptoms can affect people of all ages.
What Treatment Option Are Available?
Two primary treatment options exist for this condition, one each of conservative non-invasive treatment and surgical option. Which one of them will be right for your case is dependent on the severity of your condition.
Steroid Injections
This treatment is often the first line of attack used by neurologists when confronting peroneal nerve dysfunction. Steroid injections can reduce the pressure on the nerve by counteracting the swelling that happens at the site. This counteraction is accomplished through the inhibition of protein production responsible for inflammation. In many cases, this treatment will be combined with a nerve block that helps to numb pain by impeding the nerve’s ability to communicate it to the brain.
Peroneal Nerve Decompression (Surgery)
This treatment takes a physical approach to reduce pressure and strain on the peroneal nerve. In addition to the reduction of pressure, this approach also aims to remove lesions that could be responsible for aggravating the condition. It begins with an incision in the side of the knee along the path of the nerve. It’s current path and points of compression will be identified so that an appropriate point to release it can be found. This is done at points along the nerve where compression and entrapment are taking place. In cases where the condition is serious, it may be necessary to perform a nerve graft to restore severed or damaged nerves.
If you have more questions about peroneal nerve dysfunction or believe you may be experiencing symptoms associated with it, call Neurosurgical and Spine Consultants today. Lead by Dr. Diana Wilson, our clinic in Fort Worth, TX provides exceptional care to patients throughout our surrounding area. Life with peroneal nerve dysfunction can be painful, frustrating, and debilitating. Don’t let this condition take control of your life when relief is possible. Call us today and request an appointment to start on your road to relief from peroneal nerve dysfunction. We’re available to start accepting new people into our patient family and are ready to welcome you home to Neurosurgical and Spine Consultants.
