Neuropathy is a disorder that occurs when our nerves, specifically those outside of our brain and spinal cord, start to malfunction. It's also referred to as peripheral neuropathy, as it commonly affects the peripheral nerves. These nerves are crucial for our wellbeing as they control our motor responses and sensory perceptions.
The complexity of neuropathy lies in its diversity. There are over 100 types of neuropathy, each with a unique set of symptoms and course of treatment. Some neuropathies affect just a single nerve, known as mononeuropathy, while others affect several nerves at various locations, known as polyneuropathy. Neuropathy can either be inherited or acquired. Inherited neuropathies are a result of genetic disorders, while acquired neuropathies can stem from various factors like injuries, infections, or exposure to certain toxins.