Neuropathy and feeling wobbly

Hi Dee Dee You’re not alone - I’m going through this too, and I completely understand how tough it is.

I finished all my chemo about four weeks ago. I had 12 weekly rounds of paclitaxel (the last two with a reduced dose due to signs of neuropathy), followed by 4 rounds of EC, which I was told doesn’t typically cause nerve damage. My surgery is scheduled for next Saturday.

I’ve experienced a lot of weakness and balance issues in my legs, but thankfully that’s been improving over the past few weeks. I’m not back to 100% yet, but I make a point to walk every day and do some balance exercises to regain strength. There are a few helpful neuropathy exercise videos on YouTube—i have used ones called “Cancer Rehab PT.”

Unfortunately, my toes and fingers haven’t improved much yet. I’m still struggling quite a bit with both. My fingernails have also lifted (from the EC), so I’m not even sure what’s neuropathy and what’s nail sensitivity!   I’ve found that wearing cotton gloves—or plastic gloves when working in the kitchen—helps a bit, but everyday tasks like opening tins or fastening buttons are really frustrating.

My feet tend to act up more if I’m standing still for too long, and especially in the evenings or at night in bed. I have been told can take up to 6 -12 months to improve, which feels like forever right now.

If anyone has any tips or things that have helped them, I’d be so grateful to hear too.  

Hoping your neuropathy improves quickly and just take one day at a time.   

Yes I felt very wobbly after 12 weekly sessions of Paclitaxel.  I finished chemo 8 weeks ago, and I had to walk with a stick until 2 weeks ago.  I have been walking every day and I have built up to walking for 2 miles now.  I have been doing exercises like standing on one leg, and squats which have really helped.  I am still not fully fit, but I am getting there!