5 Tips for Managing Neuropathy by Allison Goldsmith CETI OncoVieā„¢ Cancer Exercise Specialist
Apr 07, 2025Neuropathy is a common side effect of cancer treatment, often affecting the hands and feet.
These symptoms can cause discomfort and impact daily life. Let’s talk about neuropathy and
explore ways to prevent and alleviate its symptoms.
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy is nerve damage that disrupts the communication between the brain and body,
causing pain, numbness, or weakness. Nerves act as highways between the brain and body,
transmitting signals for sensation, movement, and automatic functions.
What does neuropathy feel like?
Neuropathy can feel different for everyone. You may experience tingling in your toes, numbness
in your fingers, or a burning sensation. It can also cause sensitivity to touch, loss of sensation,
weakness, and decreased coordination, which may increase the risk of falling.
How do I prevent and alleviate neuropathy symptoms?
There are exercises, stretches, and different techniques to help combat neuropathy that you can
do every day at home.
Here are 5 tips -
1. Gently massage your feet, toes, ankles, hands, wrists, and fingers with your hands
to improve circulation and reduce tension.
2. Use a soft ball, like a tennis or massage ball, for self-myofascial release. Place the
ball under your foot and roll it gently to create pressure. You can also hold the ball in
your hand and roll it in different directions for relief.
3. Open and close your hands, making a fist and then spreading your fingers as wide
as possible to improve mobility and blood flow.
4. Curl your toes toward your heels into a pointed position, then release into a flexed
foot, spreading your toes apart to enhance flexibility and reduce stiffness.
5. Wiggle your toes and fingers individually, then move them all at once to stimulate
nerve function and improve coordination.
Neuropathy can be painful and significantly impact your quality of life. These tips may help
reduce discomfort, improve strength, mobility, and balance. Always consult your oncologist to
ensure these techniques are safe and appropriate for you.
Allison Goldsmith is a NASM-certified personal trainer, CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist, older adult fitness specialist, certified nutrition coach, and group fitness instructor. She is also a certified 200-hour yoga instructor.
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