Hi,
I finished chemo in April 2008 for bowel cancer as well. The neuropathy is quite "normal" unfortunately. Basically it stinks and there doesn't seem to be a lot you can do about it.Tell your oncologist and he/she may reduce the does of , I'm presuming, the oxalipalitan.I had to have mine reduced at about the 6 or7 cycle mark for the neuropathy and the low neutraphils.
I would love to tell you that the pins and needles and numbness fades quickly but for me it didn't. For some it apparently goes after a few weeks/months. I still have some residual numbness in my toes and the soles of my feet and the fine motor control of my figers is still a little impaired. The good news is, is that it is different for everyone.
For now, spend the money and buy some really good sandals. I bought ecco brand as they supported me, were cool (in temperature, if not in fashion!)and were squishy.I live in the two pairs that I have bought as i can't cope with "normal" shoes for any length of time.I was always a bare foot girl but even at home now, I will often put my shoes on. It is better this summer than last year and the year before, however.
Short term - have someone kind rub them for you. This really helped me. Elevate them up the wall too if you can by laying on the floor with your legs up the wall. Massage helped and i found gentle reflexology helped too. May have just been the massage that helped - who cares as long as there is some relief!
I wish that I had some better news but my philosophy is that at least I am here to feel the numbness!! And it does ease off but it may take a while and may get worse before it gets better.
Gottal love chemo side effects!!
Take lots of care and find a good foot rubber!!
Samex
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