Headed by esteemed doctors Dr. Luis J. Sanchez-Robles, DPM, FACFAS, FAMOS and Dr. Joanne N. Balkaran, DPM, MS, D.ABFAS, FACFAS, CWS. This innovative unit operates as an integral brand within Ankle & Foot Center of Central Florida. Both specialists have a proven track record in offering effective solutions for chronic lower extremity pain, focusing on cutting-edge treatments that prioritize patient well-being. Take our quiz below to see if this is the right choice for you.
You may have first experienced nerve pain in the months or years following surgery, trauma or amputation. Like most people, you probably never considered your chronic pain might be the result of nerve damage.
Damage can be inside the nerve, in the form of a neuroma, which is a tangle of broken or damaged nerve fibers mixed with scar tissue. This can cause nerve signals to deviate course back to the brain, resulting in pain.
Nerve damage can also be due to nerve compression. This occurs when the surrounding traumatized tissues press on the nerve, leading to potential muscle weakness or pain.
While not all neuromas and nerve compressions are painful, many cause significant pain and discomfort. The good news is nerve tissue can often be surgically repaired.
CLINIC TIMES ARE 1:30 p.m - 4:00 p.m., every other friday
Please reach out to our office to schedule or find out more information.
"We are thrilled to unveil our new division - the Complex Lower Extremity Pain Center," says Dr. Balkaran, Head Podiatrist and Surgeon at Ankle & Foot Center of Central Florida. "This venture reflects our commitment to providing holistic care, ensuring patients receive the best possible treatments for chronic symptoms below the knee."
how nerve repair works
Damaged peripheral nerves have the potential to regenerate. However, nerves need a structure to help guide the regenerating fibers to grow properly. If a nerve is damaged, it may no longer have the proper structure to guide this growth. As a result, the regenerating nerve fibers may tangle into a painful neuroma.
To repair the damaged nerve, your surgeon will first remove the neuroma. This gets rid of the painful stimulus and stops the pain signals to the brain. Then, depending on your specific nerve damage, your surgeon will repair the nerve by either reconnecting the nerve to allow the restoration of normal signals to the brain, isolating the nerve end to stop it from growing, or rerouting the nerves.
To repair nerve compression, your surgeon will need to release the traumatized tissue that’s pressing on or strangling the nerve. This is often done by cutting or removing the area of restriction. Releasing the tissue relieves the pressure placed on the nerve and allows it to regain mobility.
Dr. Luis J. Sanchez-Robles, DPM, FACFAS, FAMOS – Based in Oviedo, FL, Dr. Sanchez-Robles is a highly esteemed Foot, Ankle and Leg Podiatric Surgeon / Specialist. He earned his D.P.M. from the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, Des Moines, IA, in 1989, and an M.D. from CETEC School of Medicine, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in 1983. Board Certified from the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. Dr. Sanchez-Robles has achieved the prestigious Orthoplastic Microsurgical Limb Reconstruction & Deformity Correction Fellowship in 2016. He is an active member of various medical associations, including the American Podiatric Medical Association and the American College of Wound Specialists. Throughout his career, he has held teaching positions, contributing significantly to medical education. Affiliated with top-tier healthcare systems, Dr. Sanchez-Robles is dedicated to the advancement of patients podiatric care and surgical techniques.
Diplomate, American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery® | Board Certified in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot and Ankle Surgery | Certified Wound Specialist | Diplomate, Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery | Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
With over 15 years of podiatric experience, Dr. Joanne Balkaran is a skilled Foot and Ankle Surgeon specializing in Minimal Incision Surgery. She currently practices at Ankle & Foot Center of Central Florida in Mount Dora, serving the Lake County community. Dr. Balkaran, originally from Toronto, Canada, pursued a medical career after witnessing her family’s health challenges. She holds a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine with high honors from Barry University and completed her residency at Palmetto General Hospital. Dr. Balkaran caters to patients of all ages, offering personalized care to enhance their foot and ankle health.