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Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, usually causing numbness, tingling or pain in the hands and feet. Diabetes is a very common cause.
Causes & risk factors
- Diabetes (a leading cause)
- Vitamin deficiencies, especially B12
- Excess alcohol
- Certain medicines, including some chemotherapy
- Thyroid or kidney problems
- Infections or autoimmune conditions
Common symptoms
- Numbness and tingling
- Burning or shooting pain
- Loss of sensation in feet or hands
- Weakness or poor balance
- Sensitivity to touch
Tests & diagnosis
- Blood sugar
- HbA1c
- Vitamin B12
- Thyroid function
- Nerve conduction study
Treatment & management
- Treating the underlying cause, such as controlling diabetes or replacing B12
- Medicines specifically for nerve pain
- Good foot care to prevent injuries and ulcers
- Physiotherapy for strength and balance
- Reducing alcohol and reviewing medicines that may be responsible
When to see a doctor urgently
- Numbness or tingling that is spreading or worsening
- Weakness, unsteadiness or frequent falls
- A foot wound, ulcer or infection that is not healing
- Sudden severe weakness or loss of bladder control — seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Can nerve damage be reversed?
Sometimes. If caught early and the cause is treated — for example correcting a B12 deficiency or controlling blood sugar — nerves can recover. Longstanding damage may be permanent but manageable.
Why does it affect the feet first?
The longest nerves, which reach the feet, are usually affected earliest, which is why numbness and tingling often start in the toes and move upward.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.