Duke School of Medicine faculty are pioneering new approaches to nerve repair and regeneration, integrating advanced microsurgical techniques with cutting‑edge scientific discovery. Our researchers are developing innovative strategies to restore nerve function, improve recovery, and transform the future of peripheral nerve care. Learn more about our experts and their breakthroughs across the spectrum of nerve research.

The Duke Nerve Center is equally committed to delivering exceptional, compassionate care for patients with peripheral nerve disorders. Our integrated team brings together specialists in orthopaedics, neurology, plastic surgery, pain medicine, and rehabilitation, enabling comprehensive evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and access to the most advanced treatment options available.

Peripheral nerve injuries can lead to pain, weakness, numbness, and loss of function—often impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Early evaluation by a specialist is critical for the best outcomes. At Duke, our highly skilled surgeons, neurologists, and multidisciplinary clinicians use state‑of‑the‑art diagnostics and surgical techniques to help patients restore function, relieve pain, and reclaim their independence.

Common Causes of Peripheral Nerve Injury

  • Nerve Compression
    Excess pressure on a nerve from surrounding tissues can impair function. A typical example is Carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects the wrist. Compression can also occur in the neck, chest, elbow, hip, leg, or ankle.

  • Traumatic Injuries
    Accidents or sports-related trauma can tear, stretch, cut, or crush nerves. Injuries to the hand, arm, or shoulder often involve the brachial plexus, and some cases occur during birth.

  • Nerve Tumors
    Benign tumors such as schwannomas and neurofibromas can grow on nerves. Rarely, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors develop in the protective layers around nerves.

  • Underlying Conditions
    Peripheral neuropathy may result from congenital conditions like cerebral palsy or from brain and spinal injuries such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord injury.

  • Autoimmune Disorders
    Rare conditions, such as Parsonage-Turner Syndrome, can affect nerves in the shoulder, arm, and hand.