There are more than 100 types of peripheral nerve disorders. They affect the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, the peripheral nervous system, and they can cause numbness, burning and tingling.

Physicians will explain the causes and appropriate treatments of this disorder during the Feb. 5 episode of “On Call.” Medical editor Dr. Rick Holm and program producer and host Tami Watson will visit with Dr. Judith Peterson from SoDak Rehab and with Dr. Lisa Viola from Neurology Associates. During the live broadcast, viewers can call 1-888-DrOnCall (1-888-376-6225) with their questions about peripheral neuropathy.

Diabetic nerve problems and carpal tunnel syndrome are two of the more familiar types of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by, in these cases, metabolic problems or trauma. However the causes of peripheral neuropathy are numerous and include heavy metal poisoning, vitamin deficiencies, and immune system diseases.

“On Call” airs Thursdays on South Dakota Public Broadcasting-Television at 7 p.m. “On Call” is a weekly program about health produced by the South Dakota Cooperative Extension Service.

“On Call” is the only medical program endorsed by the South Dakota State Medical Association and the South Dakota Department of Health.

On the next episode of  “On Call,” panelists will discuss diabetes and help viewers understand the process of this complicated disease. Viewers can learn more about “On Call” at http://oncall.sdstate.org/.