P&S Journal: Spring 1997, Vol.17, No.2 Peripheral Neuropathy:
Common Yet Under Recognized By Devera Pine The new Peripheral
Neuropathy Comprehensive Care Center--the most comprehensive
center in New York and one of only a few in the nation--is now
open. Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder caused by injury to
the peripheral nerves--the nerves that connect the central
nervous system to the muscles, skin, and internal organs.
Symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, and pain
in the arms and legs. Its most severe form causes paralysis and
complete loss of sensation. "Peripheral neuropathy has been
called the silent disease. Although more than 2 million people
in the United States suffer from it, its extent and importance
have not been recognized," says Dr. Norman Latov, professor of
neurology and medical director of the new center. "Too often, it
is misdiagnosed or improperly treated, and the development of
new therapies has been slow and under funded." The center aims
to improve treatment of periphe