Condition
Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It often affects the hands and feet, causing numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness. Diabetes is a common cause, but there are many others. Treatment depends on the cause and on which nerves are involved.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
About peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a problem with the peripheral nerves, which carry signals between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body. It can affect sensation, movement, or automatic functions such as blood pressure. It may involve one nerve or many.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on which nerves are affected and often include:
- Numbness or reduced feeling, often starting in the feet
- Tingling or a pins-and-needles sensation
- Burning or shooting pain
- Weakness or unsteadiness
- Sensitivity to touch
When to get help now
See a doctor without delay if weakness comes on quickly, spreads, or affects breathing or swallowing, or if you have numbness with loss of bladder or bowel control.
This website is for information and appointments. It is not monitored for emergencies. For a suspected stroke or seizure, call 108 for an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is diagnosed
A neurologist assesses neuropathy from the history and examination. Nerve conduction studies and EMG measure how the nerves and muscles are working. Blood tests look for common causes such as diabetes or vitamin deficiency. Further tests are used when the cause is not clear.
How it is managed
Care has two aims: treating the underlying cause where one is found, and relieving symptoms such as nerve pain. Good control of conditions like diabetes is important. Foot care and safety advice help prevent injury when sensation is reduced. The plan depends on the cause and on which nerves are involved.
Sources
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke — Peripheral neuropathy
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions patients ask most.
What causes peripheral neuropathy?
There are many causes. Diabetes is among the most common. Others include vitamin deficiencies, some infections, certain medicines, and inherited conditions. Sometimes no cause is found.
Can peripheral neuropathy be treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. Managing the underlying condition can help, and there are ways to relieve nerve pain. What is suitable is decided at consultation.
Appointments
Plan your visit.
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