Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nerves. These are the nerves that lead from the spinal cord to other parts of the body. These nerves control the sense of touch, how a person feels pain and temperature, and muscle strength. A person who has peripheral neuropathy may find it hard to do things that require coordination, such as walking or fastening buttons.

Peripheral neuropathy is often caused by other health problems such as diabetes, kidney problems, vitamin deficiencies and alcohol use disorder, HIV, or Guillain-Barré syndrome. It can happen after exposure to toxic substances, such as arsenic, or by certain medicines such as those used for chemotherapy.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.