Chemotherapy medicines can cause problems with the nervous system, such as weakness, numbness, or pain in the feet and legs. Some medicines can also cause muscles to become weak, tired, or sore.

For most people, these problems are not serious and will get better after treatment ends. Here are some common problems and things you can do to ease them.

Common Problems

Nerve and muscle problems that may happen are:

• Tingling
• Burning
• Weakness or numbness in the hands and feet
• Feeling colder than normal
• Weak, sore, tired, or achy muscles
• Clumsiness
• Shaking
• Problems picking up objects and buttoning clothing
• Loss of balance
• Pain or problems when walking
• Hearing loss
• Belly pain
• Problems passing stool

Tell your doctor if you have any of these problems so they can be treated right away.

How to Cope

Here are some tips that may help:

• If your fingers are numb, use care when grasping objects that are sharp, hot, or could cause harm.
• If your sense of balance or muscle strength is affected, take steps to avoid falls by moving with care, using handrails on stairs, and putting bath mats in the tub or shower. Use a cane or other walking aid if you need one.
• Wear shoes with soft soles, such as sneakers.
• When bathing, check the temperature of your bath water with a thermometer. This will help prevent burns.
• Wear gloves when cooking, washing dishes, or gardening.
• Rest when you feel tired.

If these methods do not help, talk to your doctor. Pain medicine may be needed. You may also need to see a specialist.