Injuries to the leg or knee should be treated promptly. If there is a cast, splint, dressing, or other possible constriction of the lower leg, any tight feeling or numbness of the area should be brought to the attention of a health care provider. Atrophy of the muscles of the foot or leg may be present. Muscle biopsy or a nerve biopsy may confirm the disorder, but they are rarely necessary. They may include various blood tests, X-rays, scans, or other tests and procedures.
Treatment is aimed at maximizing mobility and independence.
The cause should be corrected, if possible, to reduce further damage. If there is no history of trauma to the area, and the condition developed suddenly with minimal sensation changes and no difficulty in movement, and no test evidence of nerve axon degeneration, then a conservation treatment plan will probably be recommended. Corticosteroids injected into the area may reduce swelling and pressure on the nerve in some cases. Surgery may be required if the disorder is persistent or symptoms are worsening, if there is difficulty with movement, or if there is evidence on testing that the nerve axon is degenerating. Surgical decompression of the area may reduce symptoms if the disorder is caused by entrapment of the nerve.