Afferent nerve fibers link the sensory neurons throughout the body, in pathways to the relevant processing circuits in the central nervous system.
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.
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.