Peripheral neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs when the peripheral nerves—the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord—become damaged. These nerves are responsible for carrying messages between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body, including the muscles, skin and internal organs.

There are many causes of peripheral neuropathy, including diabetes, autoimmune conditions, chemotherapy, vitamin deficiencies, infections, inherited neurological disorders and nerve compression. Symptoms vary depending on the nerves affected but commonly include numbness, tingling, burning pain, muscle weakness, reduced balance, altered sensation and difficulty walking.

For many people, peripheral neuropathy can make everyday activities more challenging and increase the risk of trips and falls. While treatment depends on the underlying cause, physiotherapy can help improve mobility, function and confidence.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy aims to help you manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy while improving your mobility, strength and independence. At Greenacre Physio, rehabilitation is tailored to your individual symptoms, diagnosis and personal goals.

Treatment may include:

Balance and falls prevention training
Walking and gait retraining
Strengthening exercises
Functional mobility training
Coordination exercises
Stretching to maintain joint flexibility
Advice on foot care and footwear where appropriate
Exercise programmes to improve endurance and confidence
Education on managing symptoms safely
Home exercise programmes to support long-term progress

Our rehabilitation focuses on helping you move safely, reduce your risk of falls and maximise your independence.

Why Choose Greenacre Physio?

At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience treating people with peripheral neuropathies through specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We regularly assess and rehabilitate individuals with a wide range of neurological conditions affecting movement, balance and function.

We understand that every person's symptoms are different. Whether your neuropathy is mild or more advanced, we will work closely with you to develop an evidence-based rehabilitation programme that reflects your goals and supports your long-term mobility and quality of life.

Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations, making specialist neurological physiotherapy accessible wherever you are.

What to Expect

During your first appointment, we will carry out a comprehensive assessment of your walking, balance, strength, sensation, mobility and functional abilities. We will also discuss how your symptoms affect your daily life and identify your rehabilitation goals.

Following your assessment, you will receive a personalised treatment plan designed to improve your mobility, confidence and independence. Your programme will be regularly reviewed and adapted as your symptoms and goals change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy cure peripheral neuropathy?

Physiotherapy cannot repair damaged nerves in every case, but it can significantly improve strength, balance, mobility and confidence. Rehabilitation also helps reduce the risk of falls and supports independence.

Can exercise make peripheral neuropathy worse?

Appropriately prescribed exercise is generally safe and beneficial. Your physiotherapist will tailor your programme to your individual condition and monitor your progress to ensure exercises remain appropriate.

Is peripheral neuropathy always painful?

No. Some people mainly experience numbness or altered sensation, while others experience burning pain, weakness or balance difficulties. Symptoms vary depending on the type of nerves affected.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from GPs, neurologists, consultants and other healthcare professionals.

Book an Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and would like specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.