Peripheral Nerve Diseases

The portion of the nervous system within the cranial cavity and spinal cord is called the central nervous system, while the portions that branch from this region throughout the body are called the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerve diseases are defined as the involvement of nerve fibers originating from the brain anywhere in the body. Peripheral nerve diseases occur when peripheral nerve functions are disabled for any reason, leading to dysfunction of the muscles supplied by this nerve or group of nerves. Peripheral nerve diseases can result from a single nerve involvement or from involvement of multiple nerves. Pain and weakness in the affected nerve area are the hallmarks.

Peripheral nerve diseases can occur due to genetic reasons, trauma, continuous pressure on the nerve, poisoning, diabetes, vitamin deficiency, and unbalanced nutrition.

Polyneuropathy encompasses a broad spectrum of diseases affecting all nerves. These can develop gradually, while others can develop over a period of one or two days and become life-threatening.

Depending on the location of the nerve involvement, there are various types, including brachial plexus injury, thoracic outlet syndrome, ulnar nerve entrapment, peroneal nerve entrapment, meralgia paresthetica, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options include medication, local injections, physical therapy, or surgery.