Regeneration of nerve cells involves either the repair or replacement of damaged nerve cells. While lower organisms possess an extensive capacity for neural regeneration, higher organisms, including humans, have limited ability to regenerate nerve cells.

Do nerve cells regenerate or repair themselves?

Unlike nerves of the spinal cord, the peripheral nerves that connect our limbs and organs to the central nervous system have an astonishing ability to regenerate themselves after injury. Now, a new report in the October 1st issue of Cell, a Cell Press publication, offers new insight into how that healing process works.

How long does it take for nerve cells to regenerate?

Regeneration time depends on how seriously your nerve was injured and the type of injury that you sustained. If your nerve is bruised or traumatized but is not cut, it should recover over 6-12 weeks. A nerve that is cut will grow at 1mm per day, after about a 4 week period of 'rest' following your injury.