What is chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy?
Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy or CIPN is damage to the nerves of the hands and feet from chemotherapy or the medications infused for cancer treatment. There are two main types, temporary and permanent. Temporary neuropathy lasts under a year and permanent is of course long lasting. Neuropathy can come is several forms. Pain, often shooting sor electrical like zings or extreme sensitivity . Many people develop numbness in the feet and finger tips.
How does neuropathy affect people?
Because the nerves are responsible for coordination of the hands and feet and alerting the body to hot or she=arp surfaces, neuropathy results in a loos of coordination and injuries to the affected areas. Some patients find it impossible to use a computer or keyboard like they used to. Injuries like cuts, burns and infections are not noticed like before. Injuries in the kitchen and on the feet are common. About 30% of people with CIPN find that they have to change jobs.
What research is happening?
Research for preventing CIPN generally focuses on cooling or restricting the blood flow to the hands and feet while chemotherapy is being given. There are s one supplements that could be helpful and there may be new medications that can help prevent nerve damage. Currently there is no standard method of prevention although there is good science developing.
How does my donation help?
Your donation will go to the development and FDA approval of Polar Paws, a safe cooling device to use during chemotherapy that automatically regulates skin temperature and cools the hands and feet during chemotherapy administration. We will support distribution of the device because we believe no one should have to worry about neuropathy when they get cancer treatments. For more information about Polar Paws, go to
