What to expect at a nerve evaluation

Call 908-215-5953 or book online through Zocdoc. When you schedule, let us know if you were referred by another physician. Some insurance plans require a referral for specialist visits — your carrier can confirm what your plan needs.

Please bring:

• Photo ID and your insurance card
• A current list of medications and allergies
• Reports (and discs, if you have them) from previous X-rays, ultrasound or MRI
• Reports from any nerve studies (EMG or nerve-conduction tests)
• Operative reports from any previous foot, ankle or leg surgery
• The shoes you wear most often, and any orthotics or braces
• A few notes on your symptoms — where, when, what helps and what makes them worse

Wear or bring clothing that lets your lower legs be examined easily, such as shorts or loose trousers.

Most of the first visit is spent listening and examining.

• Your story: when the symptoms started, what they feel like, what makes them better or worse, previous treatments, injuries and operations, and your general health.
• Examination: sensation, strength and reflexes; tapping along nerves; joints, tendons and alignment; circulation and skin; and how you stand and walk.
• Footwear: how your shoes and any orthotics fit and wear.
• Discussion: what we think is going on, how confident we are, and the options — including what happens if you choose to wait.

Many people leave the first visit with a working diagnosis and a plan. Sometimes further testing is needed first.

Tests are recommended only when they will help answer a specific question or change your plan.

• Imaging — X-rays, ultrasound or MRI — to look at bones, joints and soft tissues, or at structures that may be pressing on a nerve.
• Nerve studies (EMG and nerve-conduction testing) — usually performed by another specialist. We coordinate the testing and review the results with you.
• Blood tests for possible causes of neuropathy — typically arranged with your primary care physician or a neurologist.

For most nerve problems of the foot, treatment starts with non-surgical care: footwear and padding, orthotics or bracing, activity changes, physical therapy, and medication coordinated with your other clinicians. For some conditions, an injection may be discussed.

We’ll agree on what to try, how long to give it, and when to meet again. Nerves settle slowly, so treatments are usually given several weeks before deciding whether they are working.

Read more about how treatment is approached.

Surgery is considered only when symptoms persist despite well-tried non-surgical care, the diagnosis is well supported, and the expected benefit outweighs the risks for you. If it is recommended, we will talk through:

• what the operation involves and why it is recommended
• realistic results, the risks, and the alternatives — including not having surgery
• pre-operative preparation, which may include medical clearance from your primary care physician
• where the surgery will take place — a hospital or surgery center where Dr. Ozturk has privileges — and the type of anesthesia
• recovery: time off work, driving, footwear, weight-bearing and follow-up visits

You are always welcome to take time to decide, or to seek a second opinion.

Recovery depends on the condition and treatment. Nerves recover slowly: pain often improves before numbness does, and improvement can continue for many months. Some symptoms may not resolve completely. Follow-up visits track your progress and adjust the plan.

If something feels wrong between visits — fever, spreading redness, wound drainage, calf pain or swelling, or rapidly worsening pain — call the office. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.