Neuropathy can cause a great deal of pain. If you or the person you're caring for experiences pain, ask the doctor about prescription opioid pain medications, which can make day-to-day activities much easier to bear. Opioids can be given in combination with tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants. Numbing lidocaine patches reduce pain in specific areas.

Many cancer patients have found acupuncture to be an effective means of controlling the pain of neuropathy. Doctors vary in their attitude toward such alternative therapies, but there's growing acceptance of acupuncture for pain relief at many major cancer centers. As long as the doctor doesn't actively oppose the use of acupuncture, it's worth a try.

When to ask for extra help

In most cases, neuropathy triggered by chemotherapy goes away over time. However, long-term nerve damage sometimes results. If mobility is a problem, ask the doctor what services are available. Physical therapy can help many patients regain strength and flexibility, while occupational therapy can help patients learn strategies for daily tasks such as getting dressed and preparing meals.