Managing Numbness and Tingling (Peripheral Neuropathy)
Numbness and tingling in your hands and feet is a condition called peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can be a side effect associated with certain chemotherapy drugs. It is caused by damage to the nerves that transmit signals between the extremities and the central nervous system (CNS).
These nerves include those that transmit sensation from the extremities to the CNS or those that carry signals for muscle movement from the CNS to the extremities.
Depending on the type of nerve damage, an individual with peripheral neuropathy may fully recover without residual effects or may partially recover but have long-term problems in his or her ability to feel or move.
If severely affected, it is possible to develop atrophy (muscle deterioration) and chronic muscular weakness.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
There are many possible causes of numbness and tingling. Some of the more common include:
- Certain chemotherapy drugs
- Diabetes
- Uremia (too much urea in the blood due to kidney problems)
- Severe malnutrition
- Trauma, such as broken or dislocated bones
- Cancer
- Certain medicines or toxic substances
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
In addition to numbness and tingling, other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
- Weakness
- Pain in the arms, hands, legs and/or feet
- Abnormal sensations, including:
- Burning
- Tickling
- Pricking
- Tingling (also known as paresthesia)
Areas of the body most commonly affected by peripheral neuropathy are the fingers and toes. Symptoms usually start at the end of the extremity and gradually move upward.
Bowel function may also be compromised, causing or worsening constipation and eventually causing blockage of the intestines.
Sometimes side effects signal a serious problem. Find out when to call your doctor about chemotherapy side effects.
Treating Peripheral Neuropathy
The treatment for peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy is
to stop the treatment or change to a different drug that does not
cause damage to the nerves. If immediate steps are not taken when
symptoms start, peripheral neuropathy can become a long-term problem.
Recovery from peripheral neuropathy is usually slow, but steps can be taken to encourage regeneration of the damaged nerves. Approaches include:
- Acupuncture which is believed to relieve pain associated with peripheral neuropathy in certain cases. Ask your doctor for more details and the name of a licensed acupuncturist.
- Massage which increases blood flow and may provide pain relief associated with peripheral neuropathy.
- Physical therapy which uses range-of-motion and stretching exercises that may help strengthen muscles that are weak and improve other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
- Transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TENS) which uses a special device that transmits electrical impulses through electrodes attached to your skin. TENS has been shown to provide pain relief29 and may promote nerve regeneration.30
Learn more about how you can best manage other types of chemotherapy side effects.
UNDERSTANDING CANCER
TREATING CANCER WITH CHEMOTHERAPY
CHEMOTHERAPY SIDE EFFECTS
TREATING CANCER IN OTHER WAYS
TRACKING YOUR TEST RESULTS
UNDERSTANDING INSURANCE AND TAX ISSUES: INSURANCE TIPS
WEB RESOURCES AND ORGANIZATIONS
TOOLS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR CANCER INFORMATION
FOR CAREGIVERS
GLOSSARY OF CANCER TERMS
REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS
FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
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