Peripheral neuropathies are a diverse group of disorders, all of which affect the body's nerve fibers outside of the brain and spinal cord. These disorders can cause a combination of neurologic symptoms including weakness, numbness and pain in the arms, hands, legs and feet.

Penn's Neuromuscular Disorders Program has a long history of being one of the leading groups in the world providing clinical care for people with neuropathy, doing original research on neuropathy, and training neuropathy specialists. We have nationally recognized clinical centers of excellence in GBS/CIDP and CMT. We also have active, funded research projects on the causes of inherited neuropathies (led by Dr. Steven Scherer) and immune-mediated neuropathies (led by Dr. Eric Lancaster). Achieving an accurate diagnosis is the first step in formulating a management plan. Physicians review the management options and work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan. In some cases, this will focus on treatment of the underlying medical condition that causes neuropathy. In other cases, there may be specific medications used to treat the neuropathy and improve strength and sensation. Treatment medications may include medications for neuropathic pain and immune-modulating treatments.