Pain On the Perimeter

Peripheral nerve pain occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord—the peripheral nerves—are damaged or compressed. These nerves transmit signals between your brain and the rest of your body, including your limbs, hands, and feet. When these nerves are injured or under pressure, it can result in pain, tingling, weakness, or loss of function. Common conditions leading to peripheral nerve pain include:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing pain and numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Tardy Ulnar Palsy): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to numbness and pain in the ring and little fingers.
  • Meralgia Paresthetica: Compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, causing discomfort or numbness on the outer thigh.
doctor consulting patient

Symptoms of Stressed Nerves

Peripheral nerve pain symptoms vary depending on the nerve involved but commonly include:

  • Tingling or "pins and needles" sensations
  • Numbness in the affected area
  • Burning or sharp pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Sensitivity to touch

Diagnosis Identifying the Source of Pain

Diagnosis of peripheral nerve pain starts with a thorough medical history and physical examination. At California Neurosurgical Institute, our expert surgeons may use diagnostic tools such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography (similar to an EKG, but for your nerves), or imaging tests like MRI to pinpoint the exact cause of your nerve pain.

Background media
– P.J

It's was very great visit. The dr and nurses were amazing very nice. Dr listened to me and explained everything so I could understand. He made me feel very comfortable.

– C.F

The place was nice and clean the employees were with a smile on their face and they were very friendly. And my doctor he is interested in my health and asks me how I was doing how I have been. They really care about you here and that makes me feel good about going there.

– T.G.

My mom Vera has been here a few times now, and I have to say it's a very pleasant atmosphere. Everyone from the front desk to the young man who helped with my moms EEG is so nice. She's only seen the Dr. one time so far and he was very pleasant also.

– A.A.

I found the people courteous and kind.  The doctor seemed knowledgeable and helpful as to my physical situation.  I look forward to the treatment to alleviate same.

– A.T.

The front desk staff were all very helpful, kind and funny!  The nurse Esme who checked me in was very nice and thorough.
I absolutely loved my Dr. I can remember his name but he was very kind. He listened to me and gave me complete answers that l could understand. 

– J.S.

Suffered with Sciatica pain for over a year which was debilitating to say the least. Dr Lobo and his staff took great care of me and made arrangements around my schedule to make it work. Huge thank you to both the front office ladies that did an amazing job of communicating and scheduling somethi...

– K.M.

I recently had level 2 fusion by Dr. Liker and 2 weeks post OP I am doing GREAT! Dr. Liker and his staff are amazing and I am very grateful he was my surgeon. I have friends that have had other surgeons and they did not have the success I have. Do your part, be a good patient but definitely go to...

– S.R.

Dr Liker and Maureen make the greatest team. Dr Liker is friendly, speaks to the point, AND HE CARES. He performed a laminectomy for adult tethered cord syndrome on me, a 53-year old woman. I am still recovering, but my sciatica is gone too! I am very pleased to have had the chance to be Dr Liker...

Non-Surgical Options

Before considering surgery, we will help you explore non-surgical options to alleviate your symptoms, which may include:

  • Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers to manage pain and inflammation.
  • Splints or Braces: Wearing a brace or splint to keep the affected nerve in a neutral position, especially during sleep.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises designed to improve mobility and strength, which can help relieve nerve compression.

Treatment: Handling the Root

When conservative treatments are not effective, surgery can provide significant relief for peripheral nerve pain by addressing the root cause of compression. At California Neurosurgical Institute, we offer advanced, minimally invasive surgical options tailored to your specific condition.

Microscopic Carpal Tunnel Release

This surgery involves making a small incision at the wrist to release the transverse carpal ligament for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The procedure is performed under a microscope, allowing for a smaller incision, less tissue disruption, and quicker recovery than traditional open surgery. Patients typically experience significant relief from pain and numbness with a faster return to normal activities.

Ulnar Nerve Decompression at the Elbow (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)

This simple outpatient procedure relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve, which often becomes compressed at the elbow. The surgery frees the nerve from any restrictive tissue, significantly reducing symptoms such as tingling and weakness in the ring and little fingers.

Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Decompression

For individuals with meralgia paresthetica, this procedure relieves compression on the nerve that affects the outer thigh. By carefully decompressing the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, patients can experience relief from the burning pain or numbness commonly associated with this condition.

Banner media

Take Back Control with California Neurosurgical Institute

Peripheral nerve pain doesn't have to control your life. If you're experiencing symptoms, contact California Neurosurgical Institute today to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate team of neurosurgeons is here to help you explore your treatment options and guide you toward lasting relief. The surgical interventions at California Neurosurgical Institute are performed using state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive techniques. We aim to deliver world-class care so you can regain control of your life and well-being.

microscope
Contact us media
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (661) 228-8697.
Contact Us