Pain hypersensitivity, sensorimotor impairment, and decreased muscle force in a novel rat model of radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Introduction: Radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy is a rare, but serious complication often resulting in profound morbidity, life-long disability, and chronic debilitating pain. Unfortunately, this type of peripheral neuropathy is usually progressive, and almost always irreversible. To date, a standardized rat model of radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy has not been established.