Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

How does motor neuropathy typically present?

1. Increased sweating

2. Dry skin

3. Muscle atrophy

4. Burning pain

The correct answer is: Muscle atrophy

Motor neuropathy typically manifests through muscle weakness and atrophy as motor neurons, which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements, become damaged or degenerate. Muscle atrophy occurs due to a lack of stimulation from the affected motor neurons, leading to a decrease in muscle size and strength over time. As the muscles receive less neural input, they begin to shrink, resulting in noticeable weakness and reduced physical function. In contrast, increased sweating and dry skin are more related to autonomic function rather than direct motor neuropathy, affecting the sympathetic nervous system rather than the motor pathways specifically. Burning pain is often associated with sensory neuropathy, which involves damage to the sensory nerves rather than the motor nerves. Therefore, muscle atrophy is the most characteristic presentation of motor neuropathy, highlighting the direct impact on muscle control and health.