The nerves in a body control almost every movement that an animal or human makes. A disorder of the nerves can cause many problems that may or may not be treatable. In some cases, normal function will never return. However, it can be difficult for any veterinarian to predict how quickly or fully the nerves will repair themselves.
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Peripheral Neuropathy
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Peripheral means on the outside, and neuro is the medical term used for nerves. Peripheral neuropathy means outside the central nervous system, and these nerves are more susceptible to being injured or damaged from outside sources. These nerves are spread throughout the body and control movement of the body, the digestive system and physical responses to stimuli. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include weakness, muscle deterioration, loss of consciousness, spatial disorientation, instability and numerous others. Petmd.com states that the causes of peripheral neuropathy can be inherited from an infection, toxins, medications used for cancer treatment, metabolic or immune diseases.
Radial Nerve Paralysis
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The most common nerve injuries in dogs and cats is radial nerve paralysis, according to peteducation.com. When an animal suffers from this paralysis, it is unable to use its front legs and may typically drag its front paw. The severity of the symptoms associated with radial nerve paralysis depends on the severity of the injury. This type of paralysis is typically caused by injury to the animal's front leg, or excessive stretching of the front leg. Other symptoms may include the inability to extend the front leg or lower his limb from the elbow.
Neuromuscular Disorder
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The neuromuscular system can be affected by diseases such as Cushing's disease, diabetes, Addison's disease, botulism, tetanus and cancer. These diseases can affect any of the nervous systems causing inflammation of the nerves, according to vetspecialists.co.uk. An animal suffering from a neuromuscular disorder may exhibit signs such as the inability to exercise normally, swallow or support his own weight. In severe cases, the animal can become completely paralyzed. Extensive testing may be needed to diagnose the neuromuscular disorder, including a blood profile, tensilon test, nerve biopsy and spinal tap.
Polyradiculopathy
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Polyradiculopathy is often referred to as "coonhound paralysis" because it is common for coon dogs to contract from raccoons. Some dogs may also develop polyradiculopathy after receiving the vaccination for rabies. The early stages of this disease present themselves with rapid weakness in the hind legs over a 24- to 48-hour period of time. The bark may also become altered, along with swallowing problems and facial nerve impairment. In some cases, the dog may also need respiratory support. There is no treatment specific for this disease. However, corticosteroids may aid in reducing the recovery time. Some animals may have the symptoms reoccur with more severity.
Axonotmesis
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Axonotmesis is when the nerve fibers have ruptured. This injury typically occurs because of prolonged pressure, pinching or crushing. Recovery from this type of injury can take several weeks to several months. Depending on the injury, the nerve may regrow and the animal may regain full use of its limb. The animal may experience strange sensations when the nerve fibers grow back together and can lead to self-mutilation of the limb, resulting in a needed amputation, according to peteducation.com.
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