The peripheral nerves make up an intricate network that connects the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, skin, and internal organs. Peripheral nerves come out of the spinal cord and are arranged along lines in the body called dermatomes. Usually, damage to a nerve will affect one or more of these dermatomes, which can be tracked to specific areas of the body. This damage to the nerves will interrupt communication between the brain and other parts of the body. Resulting in impair muscle movement, prevent normal sensation in the arms and legs, and cause pain. Neuropathy can affect nerves that control muscle movement and those that detect sensations, for example temperature and pain. In some cases, it can affect internal organs, such as the heart, blood vessels, or intestines. Neuropathy can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy) or nerve type, a combination of nerves in a limited area (multifocal neuropathy) or many peripheral nerves throughout the body (polyneuropathy).

Diseases associated with greater chance of developing neuropathy >

​• 60% to 70% of people with diabetes.

• 65% of people who have been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder

​• 30% to 40% of people who receive chemotherapy to treat cancer.

​• 30% of people who have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

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Common Symptoms >

People with chronic neuropathy often lose their ability to sense temperature and pain, they can burn themselves and develop open sores as the result of injury or prolonged pressure. If the nerves serving the organs are involved, diarrhoea or constipation may result, as well as loss of bowel or bladder control. Sexual dysfunction and abnormally low blood pressure also can occur.