Nerve Function: Balancing Gain and Loss

Nerve function can exhibit either a gain or loss of activity, with distinct implications for neurological conditions. A gain of function occurs when nerves are overly excitable, such as in sciatica, where irritation leads to excessive impulse transmission resulting in pain and sensory disturbances. Conversely, a loss of nerve function indicates diminished activity, observable through reflex tests; for example, an absent knee reflex demonstrates failure in impulse transmission through the nerve root. Neurological examinations focus on identifying these variances to assess nerve health accurately.