Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

It can emerge during treatment or persist afterward, with risk varying by medicine. Some symptoms improve gradually while others remain; recovery is not guaranteed when treatment ends.

Related reading: Peripheral neuropathy and its other causes.

Tingling, burning or numb hands and feet may accompany difficulty fastening buttons, walking or sensing temperature. Standing dizziness or constipation can occur depending on affected nerves.

Platinum drugs, taxanes and other anticancer agents can damage nerve fibers. Diabetes, nutritional deficiency or pre-existing neuropathy can overlap and should be evaluated.

Drug type, cumulative dose, existing neuropathy, diabetes and individual factors influence risk. Evaluate symptoms rather than assuming every numb sensation is an inevitable chemotherapy effect.

Assessment reviews pattern, timing and functional impact and examines sensation, strength and reflexes. Laboratory or nerve tests are selected when necessary rather than required for every patient.

The oncology team may adjust dose or schedule after balancing toxicity and treatment benefit. Duloxetine can help selected painful cases; rehabilitation supports function, and evidence differs across medicines and supplements.

Walking, driving and fine movements can be affected, with increased falls, burns and persistent pain. Ongoing support may address balance, work, sleep and quality of life.

Inspect feet, protect skin from burns and cuts and remove trip hazards. Do not use limb cooling or supplements for prevention without team advice or stop cancer treatment independently.