Sore hands and feet self-care advice

Report your problems to your CNS or telephone  the Acute Oncology help line if you are having problems with intricate tasks such as doing your buttons or picking up small objects.

Wear well-fitting shoes or boots.

Wear gloves when working with your hands – for example, when gardening or washing-up.

Test the temperature of water with your elbow to make sure it isn’t too hot before baths, showers or doing the washing-up. If appropriate, turn the temperature control (thermostat) to a lower setting for hot water, or have a temperature control fitted.

Avoid walking around barefoot and check your feet regularly for any problems.

Keep areas that you walk through, such as halls, free of clutter and make sure there aren’t things such as loose rugs you could trip over.

Wear gloves if putting hand in freezer or when shopping for frozen foods. Eating a diet rich in B vitamins (including B1 and B12), folic acid, and antioxidants may help manage neuropathy and a referral to the Physiotherapists/Occupational therapists can also help if you are struggling with every day tasks because of it.

Complementary and alternative therapies may help, but always consult with your oncology team about it.

If your symptoms persist please contact your CNS or the Acute Oncology team