Conditions

Peripheral Neuropathy

Damage to the peripheral nerves that causes numbness, tingling, pain or weakness.

About this condition

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It often starts in the feet and hands.

Common causes include diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, alcohol, some medicines, infections and inherited conditions. Finding the cause is important for treatment.

Common symptoms

  • Numbness or reduced feeling in the feet or hands
  • Tingling, pins and needles or burning pain
  • Weakness of the hands or feet
  • Balance problems, especially in the dark
  • Foot injuries that go unnoticed

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

How it is assessed

  1. A history that includes diabetes, diet, alcohol use and medicines.
  2. An examination of sensation, reflexes and strength.
  3. Blood tests and nerve conduction studies, where advised.

Who may be affected

  • People with diabetes
  • People with numbness or burning in the feet or hands
  • People with vitamin deficiency or heavy alcohol use

Preparing for your appointment

It helps to bring:

  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse

How the clinic can help

  • Treating the underlying cause where possible.
  • Managing nerve pain.
  • Foot care and balance advice.
  • Rehabilitation for weakness or balance problems.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Can neuropathy be reversed?

It depends on the cause. Treating causes such as vitamin deficiency or controlling blood sugar may stop it getting worse and sometimes improve symptoms.

Why is foot care important?

When feeling is reduced, small injuries can go unnoticed and become infected. Checking your feet every day helps prevent complications.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.