Footwear Recommendations for Patients with Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

by Paul Mäkinen, C.Ped.(C), C.Ped.Tech.(C)
Certified Pedorthist, Atlantic Region - LifeMark Health Halifax

Proper fitting footwear is a good starting point to help reduce symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

Numbness in Feet? Changes to Your Footwear May Help

Peripheral nerves are those that connect to the nerves that travel from the central nervous system to the further areas of the body (legs and arms). When a person suffers from Peripheral Neuropathy they typically present with symptoms of altered sensation, numbness/tingling, and some burning pain.

When these symptoms present in the feet, there are many things that can be done to help reduce the effects. The first thing to consider is the overall mechanical function of the feet and how that may affect the foot structures. There are many options to help address foot mechanics including custom orthotics, off the shelf orthotics and proper fitting footwear.

Proper fitting footwear is likely the best starting point to help reduce some of the symptoms, according to LifeMark/Centric Health Certified Pedorthist for the Atlantic Region, Paul Mäkinen.  “The most common area of concern with Peripheral Neuropathy, in the feet, is the metatarsal region commonly referred to as the 'ball of the foot' area. These bones and joints will often present with pain, tenderness, and some form of numbness/tingling in the region. The use of a shoe with a stiff forefoot rocker will help to alleviate pressure off this area and will often reduce symptoms by reducing pressure on the metatarsals”, he explains.

Proper Shoe Sizing Includes Width as well as Length

It is also very important to be sure that you have the proper sizing when you select shoes. Not only do you want to be sure that you have the proper length, but the appropriate width is crucial as well. When the width is not correct, you often compress the nerves and structures in the area causing more symptoms.

Some brands/styles of shoes that will offer you good forefoot rocker soles and width options are:

New Balance 928

New Balance 840

Dunham 8000

For additional information regarding footwear and neuropathies in general, please refer to http://www.pedorthic.ca/foot-health/diabetes/?. The footwear considerations for someone with CIPN are very similar to the neuropathies that diabetic’s experience. 

If you have specific questions about footwear/orthotic options for your CIPN related symptoms, contact our Atlantic Region Certified Pedorthist, Paul Mäkinen, by email at Paul.Makinen@centrichealth.ca.

To find a Cancer Rehab Canada near you, visit the list of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, or Nova Scotia locations.

Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy - Numbness in Hands and Feet

Consider all rehabilitation options to help undo effects of chemotherapy treatment

 The Road to Recovery

As I rang the bell to signify the end of my cancer treatment, I had no idea that this was really just the first step in the road to recovery from the side effects of the treatment. The peripheral neuropathy that started during chemotherapy actually got worse when my treatment ended.

Hiking through the Highlands of Scotland

My husband and I had booked a hiking trip in the Highlands of Scotland to celebrate the end of my treatment. I had continued to exercise daily throughout the 6 months of chemotherapy so I knew I was fit enough for the challenge, but I had not factored in the numbness in my hands and feet. When I asked the oncologist for advice, he said "Rent a bike!" Cute answer, but not exactly a practical solution for the terrain.

Consider All Rehabilitation Options for Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

As a physiotherapist who uses acupuncture, I began to research the use of acupuncture for peripheral neuropathy (numbness in hands and feet). Research indicated it's successful in treating diabetic neuropathy, but there was very little studied with cancer patients. So I consulted with a colleague trained in acupuncture and after considering any apparent risks, we decided it was worth trying. Within several sessions, it began to improve to the extent that I knew I could go on my trip with partial sensation having returned to my feet and hands. So only 3 months after completing chemotherapy and with the aid of walking poles for balance (another great therapeutic idea) I completed the West Highland Way - a total of 154 kilometres in six days!

I have since used acupuncture with several patients who also reported some improvement in their numbness. However, if you choose to try acupuncture for chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy, please make sure you go to a regulated health professional. There is always a risk of infection with acupuncture and anyone with lymphedema must exercise extra caution.

Although the road to recovery after cancer treatment can be difficult, it is certainly worth considering all of the rehabilitation options that might be available to help you along the way.