Port Adelaide skipper Connor Rozee is set to miss the rest of the year with the nerve injury discovered a fortnight ago,
He suffered a serious hamstring injury in Round 2 which has sidelined him and after initially progressing well, the nerve setback has plateaued his improvement.
"After seeking multiple specialist opinions, we decided on non-surgical approach at this stage for Connor," Head of Medical Services Tim O'Leary said.
"The hamstring repair has healed really well, however the complication with the initial nerve injury has made it increasingly difficult for Connor's rehab to progress further.
"We're quite optimistic this intervention will help get the rehab back on track, giving him plenty of time to prepare his body for the 2027 pre-season.
"We are incredibly disappointed for Connor and know how much he wishes he could be out on the field with his teammates again this year. But we know he will keep attacking his rehab with the same relentless intensity that he has from day one, and will continue to be the same outstanding leader within the club during his time in rehab."
Port Adelaide sit 15th on the ladder with a 4-8 record but have regularly been competitive throughout the 2026 season.
