CHICAGO FOREFOOT NERVE INSTITUTE
The Nerve Is Only Part of the Problem
A surgeon-led, preservation-focused approach to advanced neuroma and forefoot nerve care guided by Dr. Tagge’s PRISM™ restoration philosophy.
Advanced neuroma and forefoot nerve restoration requires more than focusing on the nerve iteslf.
The Chicago Forefoot Nerve Institute was developed around a different philosophy of care: one focused not only on the symptomatic nerve itself, but on restoring the surrounding environment contributing to chronic irritation and failed recovery.
Patients seeking advanced neuroma and forefoot nerve evaluation travel to Chicago for Dr. Tagge’s preservation-focused restoration approach and the institute’s structured philosophy of care.
Each inquiry is reviewed individually to better understand prior treatment history, symptom progression, imaging findings, and whether a structured restoration evaluation may be appropriate.
MANY PATIENTS HAVE ALREADY TRIED:
- injections
- orthotics
- shoe changes
- activity modification
- or even surgery without lasting relief
Some continue experiencing:
- burning or tingling
- recurrent pain
- walking intolerance
- pressure between the toes
- or symptoms despite “normal” imaging
Or call us at
(224) 328-6466
Why Standard Neuroma Treatment Often Fails
Many treatments focus primarily on calming the nerve itself.
But persistent compression, overload, instability, and crowding can continue irritating the nerve long after temporary relief fades.
Removing the nerve may reduce symptoms — but not the environment that caused them.
Or call us at
(224) 328-6466
A DIFFERENT PHILOSOPHY OF NERVE CARE
The Chicago Forefoot Nerve Institute applies Dr. Michael Tagge’s PRISM™ restoration philosophy to advanced forefoot nerve care.
Rather than viewing chronic nerve pain as an isolated problem, the PRISM™ philosophy evaluates:
- why the nerve became overloaded,
- the surrounding structural environment,
- long-term overload patterns,
- mechanical contributors,
- tissue irritation,
- recovery capacity,
- and preservation-focused restoration strategies whenever possible.
The goal is not simply to suppress symptoms temporarily, but to understand why symptoms developed and determine whether the surrounding environment can be restored in a more functional and sustainable way.
ROOT
Identify why the nerve became overloaded.
Compression. Crowding. Instability. Repetitive stress. Altered forefoot mechanics.
RESTORE
Reduce irritation and improve the surrounding environment.
Preservation-focused decompression, mechanical offloading, minimally invasive correction, and restoration planning when appropriate.
HEAL
Support long-term recovery.
Structured healing strategies focused on reducing irritation, restoring function, and improving long-term stability.
THE PRISM™ RESTORATION PHILOSOPHY
The institute applies Dr. Tagge’s PRISM™ restoration philosophy to advanced forefoot nerve care.
Rather than treating the nerve as an isolated problem, the focus is placed on:
- why symptoms developed,
- the surrounding mechanical environment,
- and whether the nerve can be preserved and restored before destructive procedures are considered.
Advanced & Failed Neuroma Cases
The institute frequently evaluates:
- recurrent symptoms after injections
- failed neuroma surgery
- chronic burning or numbness
- unresolved forefoot pain
- recurrent walking pain
- difficult-to-diagnose nerve irritation
- and long-standing forefoot overload conditions
Or call us at
(224) 328-6466
A REGIONAL DESTINATION FOR COMPLEX FOREFOOT NERVE CASES
The Chicago Forefoot Nerve Institute was developed for patients seeking a more advanced and structured
Patients travel to Chicago for Dr. Tagge’s preservation-focused approach to chronic neuroma and forefoot nerve pain.
The institute increasingly evaluates patients seeking:
- advanced restoration planning
- failed-care assessment
- preservation-focused decompression
- and a more structured approach to chronic nerve symptoms
Dr. Michael Tagge is a highly rated, double board certified Chigago-based minimally invasive forefoot surgeon focused on advanced reconstruction, nerve preservation philosophy, and restoration-based approaches to chronic forefoot conditions.
His work integrates minimally invasive surgical principles, mechanical restoration, and structured recovery optimization through the PRISM™ Framework.
Start with a brief 15-minute intro call with Dr Tagge. No obligation.
Or call us at
(224) 328-6466
What People Say About Dr. Tagge
Common FAQs About Our Surgical Approach
Do I Need Surgery?
Not always. Some cases can be managed without surgery depending on symptom severity, prior treatment, and underlying mechanical factors. The goal of evaluation is to determine which approach is most appropriate.
Will I be able to walk after my procedure?
In most cases, yes.
Patients are typically able to bear weight immediately in a protective surgical sandal or boot, allowing for a more functional and manageable recovery process.
Is insurance accepted?
This is a specialized, boutique surgical practice focused on a higher level of care and experience than what insurance typically provides.
Specifics regarding coverage and financial structure are discussed during the consultation process. Out of network benefits may apply.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery is structured in phases, but generally more streamlined than traditional approaches.
Many patients transition back into regular footwear within days, with continued improvement over the following weeks as healing progresses.
What if I’ve already had injections or orthotics?
Persistent symptoms after prior treatment are common. In these cases, further evaluation is focused on identifying why symptoms have not resolved and whether a different strategy is needed.
Is the nerve removed?
Not necessarily. When possible, treatment is directed toward relieving pressure on the nerve rather than removing it. The appropriate approach depends on the specific condition and response to prior care.
What is the first step?
The first step is a structured consultation to evaluate your condition, review imaging if needed, and determine whether this approach is appropriate for you.
What if decompression doesn't fully resolve symptoms?
Decompression is intended to reduce mechanical pressure on the nerve, but chronic nerve pain can sometimes require additional treatment. If symptoms persist, the next step is reassessment — not automatic escalation. Options such as radiofrequency treatment or neurectomy may be considered only when appropriate based on the nerve response, symptom pattern, and overall treatment goals.
Remote and out-of-area patients are welcome.
Initial evaluation calls may include imaging review, prior treatment discussion, and determination of whether advanced in-person evaluation may be appropriate.