Focal peripheral neuropathies are not at the fashionable end of the neurological street. However they are important, as they are very common, sometimes disabling, and often treatable. They can also be a source of confusion when they occur in patients with other neurological diseases. This article will not go over the detailed clinical features of the many focal peripheral neuropathies that occur, though these are briefly summarised in tables 1 and 2. These can be found in many neurology textbooks, though I would particularly recommend two short texts that include clear, copiously referenced descriptions of all focal neuropathies.1,2 Aids to the examination of the peripheral nervous system 3 is a useful aide memoir, which you should carry in your bag. View this table: Table 1 Outline of focal neuropathies in the upper limb View this table: Table 2 Outline of focal neuropathies in the lower limb This brief review will explore the general approach to focal neuropathies, including issues relating to management and clinical presentation. The management of focal peripheral neuropathies is based on certain general principles with a relatively limited backing from clinical trials. These principles relate to understanding the: ### Types of peripheral nerve injury Regardless of the cause, nerve injury can be classified according to severity. This directs management and acts as guide to rate of recovery. The types of injury are: At the site of focal nerve injury there may …