Damage to the sensory nerve causes a wide range of symptoms because of the number of functions performed by the nerve. Traumatic injuries and other damages to the sensory nerves may lead to
peripheral neuropathy, with problems such as reduced position sense causing poorer coordination and balance, in addition to reduced sensitivity to temperature change and pain, leading to further problems. The ability to feel pain or changes in temperature can be affected by damage to the fibers in the sensory nerve. This can cause a failure to notice injuries such as a cut or that a wound is becoming infected. There may also be a lack of detection of
heart attacks or other serious conditions. The lack of detection of pain and other sensations is a particularly large problem for those with
diabetes, which contributes to the rate of lower
limb amputations among this population. Overall, the poor sensation and detection may lead to changes in skin, hair, joint, and bone damage over the years for many people. == See also ==