Neuropathy, Nerve Compression and Persistent Pain: Is Sugar a Missing Cause? | Dr Rick Jacoby

Could nerve compression be an overlooked cause of persistent pain, neuropathy, numbness or tingling?

Many people experiencing nerve pain are told that their symptoms are simply caused by ageing, diabetes or irreversible nerve damage. In this episode of Beyond The Pain, peripheral nerve surgeon Dr Rick Jacoby offers a different perspective.

Dr Jacoby explains his Global Compression Theory: the idea that a combination of excess sugar, biochemical changes and physical trauma can contribute to peripheral nerve compression and dysfunction.

He discusses how nerves travel alongside blood vessels and the lymphatic system through narrow anatomical tunnels—and how glycation, nerve swelling and changes to the tissues surrounding a nerve may reduce the space available. This can potentially contribute to symptoms such as burning pain, numbness, tingling and altered sensation.

We explore:

• Why peripheral nerve compression may be overlooked in people with chronic pain and neuropathy
• The relationship between sugar, glycation and nerve health
• How the Maillard reaction may affect the tissues surrounding nerves
• How the polyol pathway can contribute to nerve swelling
• Why diabetes may increase the risk of nerve compression
• Carpal tunnel syndrome as an example of nerve compression
• The interaction between biochemical stress and physical trauma
• Why treating symptoms alone may fail to address the underlying problem
• The role of peripheral nerve surgery and regenerative medicine
• How diet and lifestyle may influence nerve health

Dr Jacoby’s work challenges the assumption that nerve pain must simply be accepted as an inevitable consequence of diabetes or ageing. Instead, he encourages us to examine the mechanical and biochemical factors that may be contributing to nerve irritation and compression.

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