Odette Harris, MD, PhD
Specialties: peripheral nerves, head trauma

The peripheral nervous system is comprised of the nerves that communicate between the brain and muscles, skin, internal organs and blood vessels, and includes nerves in the face, arms, legs, torso, and some cranial nerves. When damaged, the nerves are unable to communicate properly, which can result in symptoms such as pain or numbness. Some peripheral nerves, such as those in the shoulder area (the brachial plexus) are easily injured in car and motorcycle accidents. Others can become painfully entrapped, as in the case of carpal tunnel syndrome. In the genetic disorder neurofibromatosis, the nerves become riddled with tumors.