Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a nerve condition that most often affects the nerves in the hands and feet, resulting in numbness, tingling, and pain. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including some types of chemotherapy. When that is the cause, it’s called chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).

It’s important to contact your healthcare team as soon as you notice signs or symptoms of CIPN. Like many other health conditions, treating CIPN early can result in better control of the condition.

The signs and symptoms of CIPN can vary according to the type and dosage of chemotherapy you receive. It may begin while you're receiving chemotherapy treatments or develop months after you complete treatment. Some of the symptoms of CIPN can resolve over time, but in some cases, symptoms are permanent.

CIPN occurs most commonly in the hands and feet and can include 1 or more of the following:

• Tingling or a “pins and needles” feeling
• Burning or warm feeling
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Discomfort or pain
• Less ability to feel sensations such as heat, cold, and pain
• Poor balance or trouble walking

These symptoms can make it more difficult to carry out everyday tasks like holding or carrying objects, walking on uneven surfaces or stairs, managing self-care, and completing other daily tasks.

There are many ways to manage symptoms and safety concerns due to CIPN, including therapies, medicines, and home strategies.

Ways to manage and treat CIPN can include:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Medicines prescribed by your healthcare team ‍
• Complementary or integrative therapies like acupuncture
• Exercise, yoga, and tai chi to improve balance
• Guided meditation to ease tingling sensations and/or pain

If you have numbness, decreased sensation, and/or poor balance, use extra care to prevent injuries. Examples of ways to protect yourself include:

• Being extra cautious when using sharp objects, such as when you’re cooking, working, or doing repairs
• Staying away from things that make your neuropathy worse such as standing for too long or drinking alcohol
• Protecting your skin from accidental burns by lowering the temperature on your water heater
• Keeping your hands and feet warm, especially in cold weather
• Wearing closed-toe shoes that fit well to protect your skin and reduce your risk of falls
• Using a support device such as a cane or walker to help keep your balance
• Avoiding slick or uneven walking surfaces when possible

It’s always a good idea to tell a member of your healthcare team when you notice a side effect from treatment or a symptom that concerns you. These problems may be eased with help from your healthcare team or through palliative care services.

Contact your healthcare team if:

• You have any signs or symptoms of CIPN.
• Your medicines for CIPN are not helping you.
• You’re having trouble completing your daily tasks.