Two main components of the PNS:

1.   sensory (afferent) pathways that provide input FROM the body.

2.   motor (efferent) pathways that carry signals TO muscles and organs (effectors).

The brain is protected by the skull and the spinal cord by the vertebrae of the spine. There are small openings in the vertebrae for the nerves to pass through to organs and muscles (PNS).

If the nerves are irritated any one or a combination of the following three things could happen depending on what is causing the irritation,

signals are   

·         blocked,

·         partially blocked or

·         become erratically distorted/corrupted.

This results as          

·         numbness

·         tingling,

·         burning sensations,

·         muscle weakness,

·         loss of feeling

·         loss of control of a limb or organ.

SO WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?

When a signal from a sensory (input) nerves, or to a muscle or organ is blocked, partially blocked at a joint, or vertebrae, inaccurate information received / sent by the brain can effect the information received / sent to the muscle or organ that requires control. This in turn can cause poor coordination/ balance and postural changes.