PN, Polyneuropathy, radiculopathy and the whole mess of others....just get your doctors to narrow down which one of the 'set' of neuropathies you might have. THEN be very, very consistent to other doctors you see for other issues or other opinions. It's important for long term assessments and possibly disability claims in the distance.
I speak from experience, as my own neuro rotates between poly-n's and the CIDP. I am consistent using the CIDP as it can be best looked up by other docs who might [or not] get a better understanding on how this all impacts life in general and occasionally specifically.
Simply put 'neuropathy' is defined is put many ways as seen in this attachment:
http://medical-dictionary.thefreedic...com/neuropathy
Essentially it's damage to 'peripheral nerves' that HURT!
Causes and 'etiologies' vary widely.
To non-medical folks tho, it mite be harder to explain.... there you are going to have to find your way as to how best describe in terms they might relate to what it is that is so discomfiting and possibly disableing about your situation. Even very intelligent and well-educated people often find such pain hard to grasp. It's a matter of trial and error to get the best words that 'fit'. Don't give up, you will find the way! - j