Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)

Information for parents and carers

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Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) – PIAG 0037 (118kB pdf)

Introduction

The leaflet is aimed at providing parents and carers with information about a condition called chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).

What causes this condition?

Some of the chemotherapy drugs can sometimes damage nerves around the body. This is known as chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral nerves are those outside the brain and spinal cord. It is more common to get problems in the extremities i.e. hands and feet.

What are the signs and symptoms of CIPN?

Pain described as shooting / stabbing / burning

Tingling or pins and needles

Loss of feeling or numbness

Constipation

Muscle weakness

Change in voice or swallow

Change in walking pattern

Difficulty picking up objects

What treatment(s) are available?

Your child may be referred to physiotherapy / occupational therapy / orthotics

– The physiotherapist will look at muscle strength and mobility and may recommend an exercise / activity programme

– The occupational therapist will look at functional tasks and recommend any activities/advise on equipment

– The orthotics team or gait lab may advise on footwear / insoles if required to help with walking

Medication may be required for pain relief

Chemotherapy dose may be reduced in certain cases

What can patients with CIPN do for themselves?

Report any problems early to your oncology team (even if these problems come and go after chemotherapy)

If your child has altered sensation be careful with temperature of the bath

Still try and keep as active as possible

Heel walking can be a good exercise to practice

Even if your child is on bed rest they can do activities such as popping bubbles / kicking a balloon with their hands and feet

If your child is too young to do specific exercises play activities can be used to help keep them active

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.

This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.