What to expect from cancer rehabilitation for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy can reduce feeling in the feet or hands and make movement less predictable. A rehabilitation professional may assess walking, balance, muscle strength, joint movement, hand coordination and the tasks you want to regain. Sessions can include balance practice, graded strengthening, flexibility work and strategies for dressing, cooking or using stairs. The programme is adapted to your energy, sensation and fall risk; exercises should be challenging enough to practise control without provoking a flare.

Use the recommended exercises at the agreed frequency and tell the therapist what happens during and after practice. Clear walkways, use lighting at night and hold a stable support when advised. Check footwear and inspect hands and feet because numbness can hide pressure or injury. Avoid testing hot surfaces with areas that feel numb. Bring a list of medicines and describe any new weakness, pain, cramps or changes in coordination at each review.

Contact the rehabilitation or oncology team promptly after a fall, new weakness, repeated near-falls, a sudden change in walking or difficulty gripping objects. Seek urgent help for sudden one-sided weakness, severe confusion, loss of bladder control or breathing difficulty. Pause an exercise that causes sharp pain, marked dizziness or symptoms that continue after stopping, and report what occurred.

What are my main safety risks? Which exercises fit my current sensation and strength? Should I use a walking aid? How will progress be measured, and who should I contact after a fall?