Types of Peripheral Neuropathy

Sensory Neuropathy: The nerve fibers associated with sensation can be affected by many pathologies including diabetes, nerve injury, and chemotherapy. Burning, tingling, electrical sensations, or even numbness may result. This is the most common form of peripheral neuropathy.

Motor Neuropathy: Neuropathy may affect the nerves that direct muscle function. Symptoms may include unsteady gait, weakness of the extremities, restless legs, balance and coordination deficits, muscle wasting, tired or aching legs.

Sudomotor Neuropathy (Autonomic): The nerves which direct autonomic function may also be affected by neuropathy. These symptoms are often falsely attributed to more simple explanations. Don’t be fooled! Symptoms include chronic dry skin, red or scaling feet, changes in nail color or thickness, fissuring (cracks) in the heels, decreased suppleness of the skin, “tight” sensation in the skin, swelling. Although these symptoms are significant on their own, they may also signal even more serious kidney, liver or heart disease.