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Neuropathy from previous chemo

Posted by gladysg @gladysg, Mar 29 7:43pm

Hi, I had some long-term neuropathy in my feet before doing a 3 month course (unrelated) of chemo in 2022. I have noticed a slow increase of neuropathy symptoms, especially in the last year and a half. I finally mentioned it to my PCP who referred me to a podiatrist. He says I need to see a neurologist but also told me he believes the increasing & new neuropathy symptoms are from the chemo. Just wondering if there are other folks out there who have experienced this? Thank you!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Neuropathy Support Group.

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kkw | @kkw | Aug 13 12:20pm
In reply to @tessie63 "Yes, chemo causes neuropathy. Unfortunately, before you receive it the doctors tell you may feel some..." + (show)
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Yes, chemo causes neuropathy. Unfortunately, before you receive it the doctors tell you may feel some tingling but not to worry it will eventually go away. That is a blatant lie. There are so many of us out there that have had our lives destroyed by this illness caused from chemo! I’m one of the many.

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The first time I mentioned a side effect, and I have a few, I was surprised that they were unaware. The second time, I realized my info was recorded but not acknowledged. I was angry at first but resolved that I was continuing to live a great life albeit in a different way.

Recently I found “The Comfort Shoe Store” in Vista, CA. The owners actually build shoes that work for my neuropathy. I am wearing a Topo Phantom with special inserts that are soft yet supportive. I also found a sandal! First time in years. The sandals are somewhat comfortable and very protective
but are expensive though if it works who cares. The sandals are German “Finn Mellow”. Lots of straps so my feet feel secure.

None of this is easy. The good news is that we can be available to each other. 💕

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shellyknapp | @shellyknapp | Aug 13 12:29pm
In reply to @kkw "My experience is the same. Received 2 rounds chemo in 2021 followed by Immunotherapy in 2022...." + (show)
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My experience is the same. Received 2 rounds chemo in 2021 followed by Immunotherapy in 2022. Neuropathy mild after first chemo but has gradually worsened over time. Tried gabapentin which was useless for chemo neuropathy. Listened to a speaker on the Neuropathy website who is a doctor who has chemo neuropathy and he stated there is nothing at this time to reverse or stop the neuropathy. The numbness is moving up my legs now. I have not visited a neurologist. I have tried magnesium lotion, massage, etc. and read anything I can find for new ideas. Shoes that fit are important. Inserts that adjust your changing feet help a lot.

Choose to walk each day and stay positive. If I find anything that helps I will shout it out!

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I also got my neuropathy after chemo and it has been just getting worse and worse. The numbness was originally just from my knees down to my toes and the tips of my fingers, but now the numbness is creeping up my legs to where my thighs and buttocks are now numb as well.
I finally went to a Neurologist, had two Nerve Conduction studies, and he said that the results didn't really support my symptoms so he ordered an MRI on my brain and neck. Well let me tell you....

I found out I have significant arthritis in my neck, I've got an extruded disc @ C4-5 and also @ C5-6.
I also have narrowing of the spinal canal in C5-6 and a disc bulge in C6-7!!

He said all of this is putting significant pressure on my spinal cord, and that is probably why I am having these symptoms. I am waiting for a 2nd opinion from a Neurosurgeon, because he thinks I will probably need neck surgery!

So I really think it is important to see a neurologist as soon as you can to make sure you're heading down the right path!

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kkw | @kkw | Aug 15 1:06pm

Thank you for sharing your experience. I recently visited my arthritis docs who assured me that my feet were neuropathy. I have CT Scans every 3-4 months and while they show arthritis, happily it does not require any treatment. I hope that if you choose surgery, it gives you relief from the neuropathy. Definitely get a second opinion! You are in my thoughts.

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