What is peripheral neuropathy?
What's happening in your nerves, in plain English — and why symptoms often start in the feet.
The Neuropathy Guide
Understanding neuropathy, one calm step at a time
Plain-English guides on burning, tingling and numb feet — what's going on, what may help day to day, and how to sleep a little easier. Written for real people, not textbooks.
New here? Start with these
A gentle path through the basics.
1What is peripheral neuropathy?Understanding neuropathy2Why do my feet burn at night?Sleep3A daily foot-check routine for diabetesDaily comfort4Find my comfort plan4 quick questionsBrowse by topic
Short reads you can finish with a cup of coffee.
Why do my feet burn at night?
Why symptoms can feel louder at bedtime, and small evening habits many people find helpful.
A daily foot-check routine for diabetes
A simple few-minute look-over to help you notice small changes early and know when to call your doctor.
Building a 10-minute evening comfort routine
A gentle wind-down — warmth, light movement and soothing care — to help you end the day calmer.
How therapeutic ultrasound fits into home care
What at-home ultrasound is, how people use it as part of a routine, and questions to ask your doctor first.
Choosing socks when you have neuropathy
Seams, fit, gentle compression and fabrics — what to look for when your feet are sensitive.
Quick facts
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy happens when the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord — the ones that carry messages to and from your feet, legs and hands — become damaged or irritated, so those messages get scrambled. It often starts in the toes and feet.
- Burning or hot feet
- Tingling, "pins and needles"
- Numbness in toes or fingers
- Extra sensitivity to touch
- Sharp or electric jolts
- Feeling unsteady on your feet
Common causes
DiabetesA common cause. Long-term high blood sugar can affect nerves and the tiny blood vessels that feed them.
ChemotherapySome cancer treatments can affect nerves in the hands and feet, during or after treatment.
Vitamin B12 deficiencyLow B12 can affect nerve health. Your doctor can check your levels with a simple blood test.
Age & circulationReduced blood flow and age-related changes can play a part. Sometimes no single cause is found.
Please talk to your doctor. New or worsening numbness, burning, weakness or balance problems deserve a proper check — finding the cause matters. Our guides are for everyday comfort and education, not medical advice, and they don't replace your care team.
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