When a nerve can no longer drive a muscle, the result is weakness or paralysis. Nerve transfers and reconstruction can re-power muscles that have lost their signal.
Driven weakness
Restore power
The goal
Muscles move only when a working nerve tells them to. An injury to that nerve — from trauma, compression, or a spinal event — can leave a muscle weak or completely paralyzed even though the muscle itself is healthy.
Peripheral nerve surgery offers powerful options here: rerouting a working nerve to a paralyzed muscle (nerve transfer), grafting, or tendon transfers can restore movement that seemed lost.
Learn about brachial plexus injuries — causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Learn about foot drop — causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Learn about tetraplegia — causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Learn about spinal cord injuries — causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Learn about vaginal pain — causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
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.
Nerve work is measured in millimeters. Every repair is performed under high-magnification with microsurgical instruments and the latest reconstructive techniques.
Many patients arrive having been told nothing more can be done. A dedicated nerve evaluation often reveals options that general specialists do not offer.
A healthy, expendable nerve is rerouted to power a paralyzed muscle — often the fastest route to recovery.
Grafts and repairs rebuild the pathway between brain and muscle.
When nerve repair isn't possible, redirecting a working tendon can restore key movements.
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.
Dr. Michaeli explains what is happening to the nerve, the treatment options, and what recovery looks like.
A short explainer video from Dr. Michaeli will appear here. Replace the poster with your YouTube or Vimeo embed when ready.
“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.”
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.”
Nerve transfer
“The carpal tunnel release was quick and the night pain was gone immediately. I only wish I’d done it sooner.”
Carpal tunnel release
Dr. Michaeli explains what is happening to the nerve, the treatment options, and what recovery looks like.
No. Many nerve conditions are first managed without surgery. Dr. Michaeli will recommend the least invasive effective option for your specific situation and only proceed to surgery when it offers the best outcome.
Nerve tissue is time-sensitive. The earlier a compressed or injured nerve is evaluated, the more options exist to protect and restore function. If you have progressive weakness or numbness, seek evaluation promptly.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Michaeli to understand your options and build a plan that fits your life.
