Some chemotherapy drugs can damage the nerves that send signals between the central nervous system and the arms and legs. This is called chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Most often, the nerve damage causes tingling (“pins and needles”), numbness or pain in your hands and feet, and muscle weakness in your legs.
For many people, peripheral neuropathy is a short-term issue. But sometimes, it can last a longer time or be permanent. If you experience numbness and tingling, tell your doctor or nurse straightaway. Your treatment may need to be changed or the problem carefully monitored.
For more on this, see our general section on Peripheral neuropathy.
How to manage numb hands or feet
- Take care when moving around; you may be more likely to trip if your feet are numb or your legs are weak.
- Ask your treatment team about exercising. Balance exercises have been shown to help manage some of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
- Wear gloves and socks to keep hands and feet warm, or soak them in warm water to relieve your symptoms.
- Use your elbow to check the water temperature so you don’t burn yourself.
- Talk to an occupational therapist about aids that may help (e.g. posts to raise the sheets off your feet if they’re irritated by the weight of the sheets).
- Wear shoes that fit well and have non-slippery soles.
- Clear walkways of hazards and remove loose rugs.
- If your symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor about medicines that may offer you some relief. You can also discuss having a break from treatment.
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More resources
A/Prof Kate Mahon, Director of Medical Oncology, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Katherine Bell, Dietetics Department, Liverpool Hospital, NSW; Brigitta Leben, Dietetics Department, Liverpool Hospital, NSW; Sophie Michele, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Dr Jess Smith, Medical Oncologist, Macquarie University Hospital, NSW; Karene Stewart, Consumer; Julie Teraci, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Skin Cancer and Melanoma, Cancer Network WA.
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