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Understanding CIPN

Common symptoms of CIPN

Tingling, burning, numbness, balance changes — and the everyday tasks that become harder.

5 min readUpdated June 2026

Sensory symptoms

CIPN most often begins as sensory changes in the fingertips and toes. Common patterns include tingling, pins-and-needles, burning sensations, sharp electric pains, increased sensitivity to cold, and reduced ability to feel light touch.

Motor and balance symptoms

When motor nerves are affected, people often notice weakness in the hands or feet, difficulty with fine tasks (buttons, zippers, jewelry), and changes in balance or stability when walking on uneven surfaces or in the dark.

Daily-life impact

These changes show up in ordinary moments — finding it harder to type, hold a coffee cup, walk without thinking, or sleep through the night. Naming what you are experiencing is the first step toward addressing it.

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The Novilora Team

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