Surgical Treatments

Joint De-innervation

For chronic joint pain that persists despite good joint mechanics, selectively interrupting the small sensory nerves to the joint can relieve pain while preserving movement.

Sensory

Nerves targeted

Preserves

Motion

Joint-sparing

Approach

How It Works

Understanding Joint De-innervation

Some joints keep hurting even when the joint itself is mechanically sound — the pain is carried by small sensory nerves supplying the joint capsule. Joint de-innervation selectively interrupts those specific nerves, removing the pain signal while leaving movement and strength intact.

The approach is especially useful in the wrist and other small joints, and is confirmed in advance with diagnostic nerve blocks so the result is predictable.

Who It's For

When This Treatment Is Recommended

Confirmed Joint Pain

Chronic joint pain confirmed to be carried by specific sensory nerves.

Motion to Preserve

When fusion or replacement is undesirable and movement should be kept.

Post-Block Relief

Patients whose pain resolves with a diagnostic nerve block.

The Procedure

What the Surgery Involves

Step 1

Diagnostic Block

A targeted block confirms which sensory nerves carry the pain.

Step 2

Plan

The specific articular branches to interrupt are mapped.

Step 3

De-innervate

Those sensory branches are selectively divided, sparing motor function.

Step 4

Recover

Motion is preserved; pain relief develops as healing proceeds.

The Difference

Expertise That Matters

Sub-Specialized Expertise

Peripheral nerve surgery is its own discipline. Dr. Michaeli has dedicated his practice to the nerves, with fellowship-level training and thousands of nerve procedures.

Microsurgical Precision

Nerve work is measured in millimeters. Every repair is performed under high-magnification with microsurgical instruments and the latest reconstructive techniques.

A Path Forward

Many patients arrive having been told nothing more can be done. A dedicated nerve evaluation often reveals options that general specialists do not offer.

Healing

Recovery Timeline

Weeks 1–2

Healing

The small incision heals; early motion is encouraged.

Weeks 2–6

Pain Relief

Joint pain settles while movement is maintained.

Months 2–4

Return to Activity

Patients return to activities with reduced pain.

Your Surgeon

Dr. Oren Michaeli, DO

Peripheral Nerve & Brachial Plexus Surgeon · New Jersey & New York

Dr. Michaeli is among the most experienced and trusted peripheral nerve specialists on the East Coast, combining board-certified hand surgery expertise with dedicated peripheral nerve training. He has helped patients across the region regain function when they were told nothing more could be done.

Coverage

Insurance & Cost

Most peripheral nerve procedures are medically necessary and covered by insurance. Our team will help you understand your benefits and assemble the documentation your plan requires.

Watch & Learn

Joint De-innervation, Explained

How interrupting a joint’s pain nerves can relieve pain while preserving motion.

A short explainer video from Dr. Michaeli will appear here. Replace the poster with your YouTube or Vimeo embed when ready.

Patient Experiences

Trusted by Patients Across the Tri-State Area

“After years of being told my pain was something I’d have to live with, Dr. Michaeli found the nerve causing it and fixed it.”

Patient, Bergen County

Neuroma surgery

“I had given up hope of using my hand again. The nerve transfer gave me back movement the other doctors said was gone.”

Patient, New York

Nerve transfer

“The carpal tunnel release was quick and the night pain was gone immediately. I only wish I’d done it sooner.”

Patient, Long Island

Carpal tunnel release

Explore Further

Related Conditions & Treatments

Considering Joint De-innervation

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Michaeli to understand your options and build a plan that fits your life.

Call Us

(212) 540-4263

Email

office@nerveplexuscenter.com

Office Hours

Mon–Fri · 9 AM – 5 PM

Visit

570 Sylvan Ave, 2nd Fl · Englewood Cliffs, NJ