Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is the most common inherited disorder of the peripheral nerves, affecting around 150,000 people in the United States. It is caused by mutations in genes that provide instructions for proteins involved in peripheral nerve function, impairing axons or myelin-producing cells. Symptoms include muscle wasting and weakness in the feet and legs progressing to the hands due to peripheral nerve damage. Treatment focuses on physical and occupational therapy as well as orthopedic devices.