sensory nerve fibers: Damage to sensory fibers, which transmit sensory information from the affected area to the brain and spinal cord, results in changes in sensation. These changes range from perception of abnormal sensations and pain to decreased sensation, lack of sensation, or an inability to determine joint position sense. Sensations usually begin distally and progress toward the center of the body.

motor nerve fibers: Impaired nervous stimulation due to damage of motor never fibers, which transmit impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the affected area, results in weakness, decreased movement, or decreased control of movement. Structural changes occur in muscle, bone, skin, hair, nails, and body organs due to lack of nervous stimulation, disuse of the affected area, immobility, or lack of weight bearing. Muscle weakness and wasting occur.

both sensory and motor: Repeated, unnoticed injury to the area occurs due to the inability to feel, causing further injury. This can result in infection or structural damage. Changes include ulcer formation, poor healing, loss of tissue mass, scarring, and deformity.