Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged. It most often affects the feet, legs, hands or arms and can alter sensation, movement or automatic body functions.
Common symptoms
- Numbness or reduced sensation
- Tingling, burning or electric-shock-like pain
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Balance problems
- Foot injuries that are difficult to feel
Causes
Diabetes is a common cause. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, alcohol-related nerve damage, autoimmune disease, kidney disease, infections, inherited disorders, nerve compression and some medicines including certain cancer treatments. Sometimes no cause is identified.
Diagnosis
Assessment may include medical history, neurological examination, blood tests and tests of nerve function such as nerve conduction studies and electromyography. Additional investigations depend on the suspected cause.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on the underlying cause when possible and on controlling symptoms. Options may include improved diabetes management, correction of nutritional deficiencies, changes to medicines when appropriate, medicines for neuropathic pain, physical therapy and foot care.
When to seek urgent care
New or rapidly worsening weakness, difficulty breathing or swallowing, loss of bladder or bowel control, or sudden one-sided numbness or weakness requires urgent medical assessment.
Related topics
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026. This page provides general health information and does not replace individual medical assessment or treatment.