Peripheral Neuropathy or Nerve Pressure? Understanding the Overlap and How Triangle Spinal Decompression in Cary, NC Can Help

Peripheral neuropathy and nerve pressure are two distinct but often confused conditions—both can produce tingling, numbness, burning sensations, and even weakness in the hands or feet. At Triangle Spinal Decompression in Cary, NC, Dr. Abbie Swank and Dr. Parker Neill specialize in helping patients accurately identify and address the root cause of these symptoms.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage caused by a variety of conditions, the most common being diabetes. It affects the peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms usually begin in the feet and hands, including:

• Tingling or burning
• Sharp, jabbing pain
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness

Common causes include:

• Diabetes
• Infections
• Autoimmune disorders
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Certain medications and toxins

What Is Nerve Pressure?

Nerve pressure (commonly referred to as a pinched nerve) occurs when surrounding tissues—such as a herniated disc, tight muscle, or inflamed joint—compress a nerve. This compression interferes with nerve signaling, often causing:

• Radiating pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Sensations that travel along the path of the nerve

Conditions that can lead to nerve pressure include:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal stenosis
• Poor posture or repetitive movements

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Peripheral neuropathy and nerve pressure can feel very similar—but treatments are different. That’s why a precise diagnosis is crucial.

At Triangle Spinal Decompression, Dr. Swank and Dr. Neill perform comprehensive evaluations including orthopedic and neurological testing, laboratory, imaging (as needed), and a detailed medical history. They help determine whether symptoms are from systemic nerve damage (like neuropathy) or localized nerve compression in the spine or extremities.

How We Help

If your symptoms stem from spinal nerve pressure—such as a bulging disc or degenerative disc issue—Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression may offer lasting relief. This FDA-cleared therapy gently stretches the spine, relieving pressure on nerves and promoting disc healing.

If your symptoms are consistent with peripheral neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy, we can help you manage symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist for systemic care.

We’re Here for Cary, Morrisville, Apex & Raleigh

At Triangle Spinal Decompression, our goal is simple: get to the root of your nerve pain and offer solutions that work—either through effective, affordable treatment or a timely referral. Whether you're dealing with nerve pressure or true peripheral neuropathy, we’re here to help you take the next step.

Triangle Spinal Decompression
Located inside Swank Chiropractic Sports Medicine
Address: 3750 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 105, Cary, NC 27513
Phone: 919-469-8897
Online: triangledecompression.com/contact