Release trapped nerves without surgery. Using precise ultrasound guidance, we gently separate compressed nerves from surrounding tissues - providing relief from numbness, tingling, and pain caused by nerve entrapment.
An alternative to surgical release for mild to moderate carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, and other nerve compression conditions.
Avoids surgical risks, scars, and lengthy recovery
Real-time imaging ensures precise, safe treatment
Most return to normal activities within days
Performed in our clinic, no hospital required
Nerve hydrodissection is a minimally invasive technique that uses fluid injection to free trapped nerves from surrounding tissue. Think of it as "unsticking" a nerve that has become adhered to fascia, scar tissue, or other structures that are compressing or restricting it.
Using high-resolution ultrasound, Dr. Buchheit and his team can visualize the nerve and surrounding structures in real time. A small amount of fluid, often PRP, prolotherapy, or ACS, is then precisely injected around the nerve, creating a "cushion" that separates the nerve from compressing tissues.
This restores the nerve's ability to glide freely during movement, reducing compression that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling.
Repeated movements cause inflammation and swelling that compresses nerves in tight anatomical spaces.
Previous injuries or surgeries create adhesions that "glue" nerves to surrounding structures.
Some areas (like the carpal tunnel) are naturally tight, and even small changes can compress nerves.
Effective for a variety of nerve entrapment syndromes throughout the body
Median nerve compression at the wrist causing hand numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow causing ring and small finger numbness.
Piriformis syndrome and other causes of sciatic pain can respond to hydrodissection.
Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment causing thigh numbness and burning.
Tibial nerve compression at the ankle causing foot pain and numbness.
Nerve entrapment causing shoulder pain and rotator cuff weakness.
A precise, minimally invasive office procedure
Dr. Buchheit uses high-resolution ultrasound to visualize the entrapped nerve and surrounding structures.
The skin is numbed for comfort. The procedure itself is well-tolerated.
Fluid is injected around the nerve under real-time ultrasound guidance, separating it from surrounding tissue.
The nerve is freed from adhesions and can now glide normally, relieving compression symptoms.
Dr. Buchheit is a Certified Interventional Pain Sonographer (CIPS), having completed advanced training in ultrasound-guided procedures. This expertise allows for:
View our preparation guide including medication considerations and recovery expectations.
A non-surgical alternative for many patients
Note: Hydrodissection is an excellent first-line option for many patients, but surgery remains appropriate for severe cases or when hydrodissection doesn't provide sufficient relief.
The procedure is performed using a small needle and gentle technique. Numbing medication is often applied to the skin, and several solutions used for hydrodissection can also provide quick pain relief. Most patients describe mild pressure or brief discomfort rather than pain. Many are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.
Many patients notice some immediate improvement due to the anesthetic in the solution. As this wears off, you may experience temporary soreness. True improvement typically becomes apparent over 1-2 weeks as the nerve heals in its freed position. Full benefit often develops over 4-6 weeks.
Results vary depending on the cause and severity of the nerve entrapment. Many patients experience lasting relief, especially when combined with ergonomic changes to address contributing factors. If symptoms return, the procedure can be repeated. Some patients benefit from adding PRP to promote tissue healing.
Several solutions may be used for hydrodissection. These range from a low-concentration dextrose prolotherapy solution to PRP or ACS. The specific formulation is tailored to your needs and discussed during your consultation.
Hydrodissection is considered very safe, especially with ultrasound guidance. Potential risks are minimal and include temporary soreness, bruising, or infection (rare with proper sterile technique). Serious complications are extremely uncommon. The procedure has a much lower risk profile than surgery.
Find out if nerve hydrodissection can relieve your numbness, tingling, and pain without the risks and recovery of surgery.