Does cancer rehabilitation treat chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy?

A rehabilitation plan may reduce the effect of numbness, tingling, pain, weakness or poor balance on walking, dressing, work and other daily activities.

A physiotherapist can assess strength, balance and walking, then tailor exercises or recommend a suitable walking aid. An occupational therapist can suggest ways to protect numb hands and feet, adapt household tasks and conserve energy. Pain, footwear and fall risks may also be reviewed as part of coordinated care.

Rehabilitation supports function while the oncology team considers whether medicines, treatment adjustments or another assessment are needed. The approach depends on which nerves are affected and how symptoms interfere with everyday life.

Tell your cancer team when symptoms begin or change. Note whether they affect buttons, writing, sleep, driving, balance or walking. Check numb skin for cuts or blisters, wear stable footwear and use handrails where available. Avoid very hot water on areas that cannot judge temperature reliably.

Do exercises recommended for your ability rather than copying a general routine. A rehabilitation professional can show you how to progress activity without adding avoidable fall or injury risk.

Contact your cancer team promptly for new or worsening weakness, repeated falls, trouble walking, severe pain, or symptoms that stop you using your hands safely. Seek urgent medical care for sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, loss of bladder or bowel control, or rapidly spreading weakness, because these need assessment for causes other than peripheral neuropathy.

Ask whether your symptoms fit chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, which rehabilitation professionals should assess you, and what activities are safe. You can also ask how treatment will be monitored, whether medicines could be contributing, and what changes should trigger an earlier review.