Chemotherapy is one of the most common and effective treatments used to combat cancer, but it doesn't come without its side effects. Among the most distressing and persistent complications for many patients is peripheral neuropathy. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) can severely affect quality of life, making everyday activities painful and difficult. In this blog post, we’ll explore what CIPN is, how many people it affects, what medications are most likely to cause it, and what you can do to prevent or cope with this condition. Whether you are undergoing chemotherapy or supporting a loved one who is, our goal is to educate and offer empathetic, practical guidance.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves are responsible for sending sensory information to the brain and controlling muscle movement. When these nerves are damaged, you may experience nerve pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, or burning sensations, especially in your hands and feet.

In the case of chemotherapy, this condition is known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). It typically affects the smallest nerve fibers first, which is why nerve pain in the hands and feet is one of the first and most common symptoms.

How Common Is Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy?

CIPN is surprisingly common. Studies show that approximately 30% to 40% of people undergoing chemotherapy will develop some degree of peripheral neuropathy. The risk can be even higher depending on the type of chemotherapy, dosage, and duration of treatment.

According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, up to 68% of patients experience CIPN within the first month of completing chemotherapy. While for some people the symptoms gradually improve, 20% to 30% may continue to suffer from chronic nerve pain and symptoms long after their treatment ends.

Which Chemotherapy Drugs Are Most Likely to Cause CIPN?

Not all chemotherapy drugs carry the same risk of peripheral neuropathy. The most commonly associated medications include:

• Platinum-based drugs (e.g., cisplatin, oxaliplatin, carboplatin): Commonly used for ovarian, testicular, and colon cancers.

• Taxanes (e.g., paclitaxel, docetaxel): Used for breast, lung, and ovarian cancers.

• Vinca alkaloids (e.g., vincristine, vinblastine): Used to treat leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers.

• Bortezomib: A proteasome inhibitor used to treat multiple myeloma.

• Thalidomide and Lenalidomide: Used for treating multiple myeloma and other blood disorders.

These medications can cause inflammation and damage to the nerves, disrupting blood flow and impairing the ability of the nerves to communicate with the brain and spinal cord.

Can Peripheral Neuropathy Be Prevented?

Currently, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent CIPN, but research is ongoing. That said, some therapies have been explored and used with the goal of either preventing or minimizing the effects of nerve damage during chemotherapy.

Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy)

Cryotherapy involves cooling the hands and feet during chemotherapy infusions using ice packs placed in special mittens and socks. The theory is that cooling reduces blood flow (vasoconstriction), which in turn reduces the amount of chemotherapy that reaches peripheral nerves.

Compression Therapy

Compression therapy uses tight-fitting gloves, often two layers of nitrile or latex gloves, worn during chemo infusions. The compression may limit the amount of chemotherapy that reaches the fingertips by physically squeezing the blood vessels.

Though both of these methods show promise, more studies are needed to confirm their long-term effectiveness. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any preventative measures.

Why CIPN Needs to Be Taken Seriously

Peripheral neuropathy is not just a nuisance. It can significantly impair daily life. When you have nerve pain in the hands and feet, even simple tasks like buttoning a shirt, walking, or cooking can become difficult and dangerous.

Neuropathy can also increase the risk of falls, burns, cuts, and other injuries due to loss of sensation and poor coordination.

How to Avoid Injuries from Peripheral Neuropathy

If you’re living with CIPN, injury prevention should be a top priority. Here are some practical ways to protect yourself:

• Use non-slip rugs and mats in your home to avoid tripping.

• Install grab bars in bathrooms and hallways.

• Wear protective gloves when cooking or cleaning.

• Use a thermometer to test bath water temperature.

• Avoid walking barefoot to protect your feet.

• Keep living spaces well-lit to prevent accidents.

• Wear supportive, closed-toe shoes with good grip.

• Schedule regular foot and hand checks to catch any unnoticed injuries.

Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy: What You Can Do

Living with CIPN can be frustrating and exhausting, but there are several strategies to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

1. Topical Treatments

One of the gentlest ways to manage nerve pain is using a cream for neuropathy. Look for products that are organic, rich in magnesium, and designed to support blood flow and reduce inflammation.

We recommend trying Nerve Balm, a soothing, over-the-counter cream for neuropathy that includes natural ingredients known to help ease nerve pain in hands and feet. Applied regularly, it may offer relief from burning, tingling, and numbness.

2. Nutritional Support

Certain nutrients like vitamin B12, alpha-lipoic acid, and magnesium have shown promise in nerve health. Ask your doctor about supplements that may help support nerve regeneration.

3. Physical Therapy

A physical therapist can design an exercise program that helps improve balance, strength, and coordination, all of which can reduce fall risk and help with mobility.

4. Acupuncture

Some patients find relief through acupuncture, which may help stimulate nerve repair and decrease pain.

5. Medications

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications specifically aimed at nerve pain. These may include anticonvulsants like gabapentin or antidepressants like duloxetine. While effective for some, these medications can have side effects and may not work for everyone.

6. Relaxation and Mindfulness

Chronic pain can take a toll on your mental health. Practices such as meditation, yoga, or guided imagery can help you manage stress, which in turn can reduce your perception of pain.

Conclusion

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the more challenging side effects of chemotherapy, but you are not alone in this journey. Whether you are dealing with nerve pain in your hands and feet, struggling with inflammation, or feeling overwhelmed by the lack of clear solutions, know that your experience is valid.

We hope this post has helped you better understand chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and more importantly, given you practical tools and compassionate guidance to navigate it.

Talk openly with your healthcare team about your symptoms, explore preventative options if you are starting chemo, and don’t be afraid to try different coping strategies. Relief is possible, and research continues to bring new hope.