These are just a few signs of peripheral neuropathy– a condition that can sneak in during or after cancer treatment, often without much warning. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you are not alone– and you’re not imagining it.

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nerves– the ones outside your brain and spinal cord. These nerves help you feel sensation and control movement. When they are damaged, you might notice:

   • Tingling or “pins and needles”

   • Numbness (often in the hands and feet)

   • Burning or sharp pain

   • Difficulty walking or with balance

   • Muscle weakness or cramping

Why Does it Happen During Cancer Treatment?

Certain chemotherapy drugs can damage nerves. Radiotherapy and surgery can sometimes contribute too. For some, the symptoms are short-lived. For others, they may last months or even years.

How Common is it?

Studies suggest that up to 68% of people in the UK experience some level of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) within the first month of treatment. Around 30% still have symptoms six months later. (Macmillan Cancer Support & British Journal of Cancer 2022)

A recent study accepted in December 2024 – Effects of Physical Exercise on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (Marisa Cristina Correa de Mona et al) concluded that structured exercise programmes show promising outcomes not only to individuals perceptions of CIPN but also interns of physical functioning, balance, active daily living performance, pain and quality of life.

Can Exercise Help?

Yes– especially gentle, focused movement. Exercise won’t cure nerve damage, but it can support blood flow and circulation, maintain mobility, and help improve balance.

You can try this very simple daily foot routine:

   • Toe wiggles – to keep nerve pathways active

   • Ankle circles – to support mobility and circulation

   • Imaginary marble pick-up – to improve coordination and toe strength and adatability

   • Rolling a massage ball underfoot – to stimulate the soles of the feet.

A few minutes a day can make a difference.

Extra Tips for Managing Neuropathy

.  • Stay warm – cold can make symptoms worse

   • Foot care – check your feet for blisters and cuts daily. Loss of sensation can delay healing. Follow any care routine you have been given

   • Balance practice – you can practice standing on one leg (stand near a wall for support) to help retrain balance and stability

   • Talk to your care team – it is always important to report new or worsening symptoms

Please do not wait until it is severe. If you notice new tingling, pain or weakness, let your cancer team know. Early adjustments to treatment can help prevent long-term damage.

You are not being dramatic. It is real, and it is manageable– with the right support and care. 

If you would like more information about my cancer rehab and well-being programme that includes a section on foot-work Cancer-recovery-wellbeing-programme or email fi@therapyinmotion.co