Types of Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy (most common), chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and hereditary neuropathies each present different patterns and rehabilitation needs.
The Rehabilitation Challenge
Neuropathy impairs both strength and sensation — the two pillars of safe movement. Balance deteriorates because proprioceptive feedback from the feet is reduced. Fall risk is high. Rehabilitation must address all these dimensions.
Physiotherapy Approach
Balance training on progressively unstable surfaces (foam pads, wobble boards) forces the brain to rely on visual and vestibular inputs while slowly improving residual proprioception. Strengthening weak intrinsic foot muscles prevents foot deformity.
Pain Management Strategies
TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) and low-level laser therapy provide adjunctive pain relief. Desensitization therapy — progressive exposure of hypersensitive skin to graded textures — reduces neuropathic pain.