Health Topics A-Z

What Are the Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy?

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy usually begin gradually and include:

• A tingling sensation in the toes or in the balls of the feet that eventually spreads up the legs toward the trunk. Less commonly, the sensation may begin in the hands and spread up the arms.
• Numbness in the hands and feet that spreads up the arms and legs.
• Weakness or heaviness in muscles throughout the body. This may be accompanied by cramping, especially in the feet, legs, and hands.
• Sensitive skin that may be painful to the touch. Prickling, burning, tingling, or sharp stabbing sensations may occur spontaneously and usually worsen at night.
• A foot-drop walking gait and/or problems with balance or coordination.

Call Your Doctor If:

• You have numbness or tingling in your extremities.
• You have weakness or heaviness in your muscles that has lasted over time and may be accompanied by cramping.
• You experience a prickling, burning, stabbing, or otherwise uncomfortable and spontaneous sensation on your skin.