Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy develops when nerves in the body's extremities, such as the hands, feet and arms, are damaged. The symptoms depend on which nerves are affected.

In the UK it's estimated almost 1 in 10 people aged 55 or over are affected by peripheral neuropathy.

The peripheral nervous system

The peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves that lie outside the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).

It includes different types of nerves with their own specific functions, including:

• sensory nerves – responsible for transmitting sensations, such as pain and touch
• motor nerves – responsible for controlling muscles
• autonomic nerves – responsible for regulating automatic functions of the body, such as blood pressure and bladder function

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy

The main symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can include:

• numbness and tingling in the feet or hands
• burning, stabbing or shooting pain in affected areas
• loss of balance and co-ordination
• muscle weakness, especially in the feet

These symptoms are usually constant, but may come and go.

When to see a GP

It's important to see your GP if you experience the early symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

These include:

• pain, tingling or loss of sensation in the feet
• loss of balance or weakness
• a cut or ulcer on your foot that's not getting better

It's also recommended that people at highest risk of peripheral neuropathy, such as people with diabetes, have regular check-ups.

A GP will ask about your symptoms and may arrange some tests to help identify the underlying cause.

You may be referred to hospital to see a neurologist, a specialist in health problems affecting the nervous system.

Generally, the sooner peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed, the better the chance of limiting the damage and preventing further complications.

For more information on Peripheral Neuropathy, please visit the NHS 111 Wales website.