If you’re dealing with foot drop, leg weakness, or numbness along the outer leg or top of the foot, peroneal nerve decompression may help. Dr. Ketan Sharma specializes in treating peroneal nerve compression and chronic pain, helping patients regain mobility and function through precise, advanced surgical care.
What is Peroneal Nerve Decompression?
Peroneal nerve decompression is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the peroneal nerve that runs along the outside of the knee and down the lower leg. When this nerve becomes compressed, it can lead to foot drop, tingling, numbness, or leg weakness. Dr. Sharma carefully releases the surrounding tissues that are compressing the nerve to restore normal nerve function and reduce painful or limiting symptoms. It is often recommended when nonsurgical treatments fail to provide relief.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms Indicating You May Need Peroneal Nerve Decompression?
Peroneal nerve entrapment can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. If you’re experiencing persistent nerve-related issues in your lower leg or foot, it may be time to consider surgical intervention. Watch for the following signs and symptoms:
- Weakness in the ankle or toes when walking
- Difficulty lifting the foot or toes (foot drop)
- Feeling of numbness or tingling along the outer leg or top of the foot
- Pain or aching near the outside of the knee
- Instability or frequent tripping while walking
- Symptoms that worsen when crossing your legs or squatting for extended periods
What Does Peroneal Nerve Decompression Treat?
Peroneal nerve decompression is performed to treat peroneal nerve entrapment, a condition in which the peroneal nerve, responsible for controlling movement and sensation in the lower leg, foot, and toes, becomes compressed, typically around the fibular head near the knee.
This can disrupt nerve signals, causing pain, numbness, or even difficulty lifting the foot (foot drop). Left untreated, the condition can progress and result in permanent weakness or muscle atrophy.
What Happens During Peroneal Nerve Decompression?
During peroneal nerve decompression surgery, Dr. Sharma makes a precise incision near the fibular head, just below the knee, where the peroneal nerve is most commonly compressed. He then carefully identifies the nerve and gently releases it from surrounding structures such as tight fascia, fibrous bands, or muscle tissue that may be constricting it.
Once the nerve is fully decompressed and tension is relieved, Dr. Sharma ensures that it glides freely without obstruction. The incision is then closed with sutures, and a soft dressing is applied to the area. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under regional or general anesthesia, with a focus on preserving function and minimizing trauma to nearby tissues.
What is Recovery Like After a Peroneal Nerve Decompression?
Recovery after peroneal nerve decompression is generally smooth, but some temporary numbness, swelling, or soreness around the incision site is common. Most patients can walk the same day, though activity may be limited for the first few weeks. Depending on the severity of nerve damage before surgery, full nerve recovery can take several months. Dr. Sharma will monitor your progress and may recommend physical therapy to help restore mobility.
To support healing and improve outcomes, follow these aftercare guidelines:
- Keep the surgical site clean and dry
- Elevate the leg to reduce swelling
- Avoid crossing your legs or prolonged kneeling
- Wear a brace or support device if recommended
- Follow up with Dr. Sharma for scheduled evaluations
- Begin physical therapy exercises as directed
- Report any signs of infection or worsening symptoms
Why Choose Dr. Sharma for Peroneal Nerve Decompression?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon with advanced expertise in complex peripheral nerve conditions. With over 600 nerve and pain surgeries performed annually, Dr. Sharma brings a high level of surgical precision and compassionate care to every case. He is recognized for his dedication to identifying the underlying cause of nerve pain and developing personalized treatments that optimize long-term recovery and function.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sharma for peroneal nerve decompression:
- Trained in reconstructive surgery at Washington University in St. Louis
- Completed a hand and microvascular fellowship under a world-renowned orthoplastic surgeon
- Specializes in restoring mobility and resolving chronic nerve pain
- Focuses on individualized care and accurate, exam-based diagnosis
- Offers advanced surgical techniques with proven outcomes
Schedule a consultation to see if peroneal nerve decompression is the right solution for you.
