The nervous system is the body's communication network — a vast web of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves that controls movement, transmits sensory signals, and regulates every system in the body.
What the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system do — and how both relate to pain
The nervous system has two main divisions: the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which includes all the nerves that branch out from the spinal cord to reach the muscles, skin, and organs throughout the body. In the context of musculoskeletal pain, the peripheral nervous system is particularly relevant — these are the nerves that carry sensation from your tissues back to your brain and carry movement signals from your brain out to your muscles. When a nerve is compressed, irritated, or sensitized, it can produce symptoms — pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness — anywhere along its path. That's why a pinched nerve in the neck can cause pain in the hand, and why lumbar nerve irritation produces symptoms down the leg.
How Sword Health can help
When pain involves the nervous system — whether through nerve compression, sensitization, or referred symptoms — physical therapy that addresses both the structural source and the nerve's mobility can make a significant difference. Sword connects you with a physical therapist who can assess your nervous system's role in your symptoms and guide your care from home.
About the author
Carolina Moreira
Medical Director of Clinical Development at Sword Health
