Nerve Testing is not new. What is new is whether nerve damage can be reversed. Can the damaged nerve be restored to its normal function and the foot sensations be restored to normal? This has tremendous implications, especially for diabetics who suffer with the nerve damage called diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Others who can benefit from this type of testing include, those who suffer from tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), heel pain, deep puncture wounds, crush injuries, among other ailments.
The number one cause for amputation for the diabetic patient is not poor circulation. Rather, diabetic peripheral neuropathy causes the eventual damage to the tissues and that eventually leads to amputation. Poor circulation could be coincidental, but amputations in this population usually can occur even with a good vascular supply.
Dr. A. Lee Dellon, a professor of plastics and neuro-surgery at Johns Hopkins University Medical School, developed the research and the state of the art testing equipment that is designed to test quantitatively for nerve sensory loss. He also developed the surgical techniques and procedures designed to decompress the nerves (damaged) involved and ultimately reverse the loss of sensation, in about 85% of the cases.
Drs. Neil and Barton Horsley have studied under Dr. Dellon at the Institute for peripheral Nerve Surgery at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. Drs. Neil and Barton Horsley and their technicians have been certified to conduct the necessary tests and have brought the testing equipment to Chicago. This will allow them to identify those patients who are affected by the nerve damage associated with the various medical conditions, especially those patients who are suffering with diabetes mellitus. The nerve testing equipment is called the Pressure Sensitive Sensory Device (PSSD).
The testing device (PSSD) has been approved by the FDA and the American Diabetic Association recommends that the test be performed on the diabetic patient at least once a year. Test results along with clinical correlation gives an accurate picture of the extent of nerve damage, and Drs. Neil and Barton Horsley can determine whether the patient is a candidate for the procedure(s). After the procedure is performed, some patients report that sensation has returned within a week of the procedure.
The testing equipment (PSSD) is also a useful tool for monitoring the patient after healing has occurred over the post operative period. Therefore the patient will typically be scheduled for periodicals.
This testing and surgical procedure is new and innovative. The research is well documented and can be searched using the Index Medicus at most libraries that have a link to medical schools.
Very soon, footDrHorsley will be adding testing centers in the offices of Drs. Victor L. Horsley and Barton Horsley, effectively offering this very valuable service to a large portion of the mid-west population.
If you have numbness, tingling or burning to your feet, sometimes associated with pain, you may be experiencing some from of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage). The first step to reversing this condition is to call and schedule an appointment. The test is painless and can be done in the comfort of an office or clinical setting. After completing the test, a consultation is scheduled with Drs. Neil, Victor or Barton Horsley to review the test results and to determine whether you are a candidate for these procedures.
Contact Information for Nerve Testing
In Chicago, call the Center for Wound Care at Michael Reese Hospital, (312) 791-5703 and ask to speak with Lori.
In Detroit call (248) 559-5200, and ask to speak with Dr. Barton Horsley.
In St. Louis, Missouri and Belleville, Illinois, call (618) 222-1986, or Toll Free at (877) 372-6048 and ask to speak with Dr. Victor L. Horsley.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms addressed, we strongly recommend that you seek the advice of your podiatrist for proper diagnosis.