Understanding Neuropathy After Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Facing Neuropathy Together

Neuropathy after ovarian cancer treatment is a side effect that’s far more common—and frustrating—than most people realize. If you’ve ever felt unexplained tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands and feet during or after chemotherapy, you’re not imagining things—and you’re definitely not alone.

In our Teal Talk – an Ovarian Cancer Podcast episode, “Facing Neuropathy Together,” we dig into what causes neuropathy, how it affects daily life, and what you can do to take back some control.

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What is neuropathy—and how does it really feel?

Neuropathy, in simple terms, is nerve damage. For people in treatment for ovarian cancer, it’s often a result of chemotherapy—especially from a drug called paclitaxel (you might know it as Taxol). It can sneak up on you with tingling or numbness, often starting in the fingers or toes. For some, it’s mild. For others, it can linger for months, even after treatment ends.

Dr. Elizabeth Thayer, a gynecologic oncology fellow and guest on the podcast, explains it like this:

“Some people feel it right away—numbness, pinprick pain, tingling in their toes or fingers. Others might not even realize they have it until they start dropping things or having trouble walking.”

From using a fork to buttoning a shirt, walking safely, or driving a car—neuropathy can turn everyday tasks into unexpected challenges. The good news? There are ways to manage it—and even help prevent it.

What you can do: Simple tips to manage or prevent neuropathy

Let’s start with this truth: the earlier you speak up about neuropathy symptoms, the better. Dr. Thayer emphasizes that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” And that couldn’t be more true here. Whether you’re currently in treatment or navigating survivorship, these tools can help.

Try these prevention & relief strategies:

Cold therapy (cryotherapy): Wearing ice gloves or socks during treatment may reduce nerve exposure to chemo drugs.

Compression therapy: Gentle pressure on hands and feet during infusions may help minimize nerve damage.

Vitamin D boost: Low levels might increase your risk of neuropathy, so ask your doctor to check your levels.

Stay active: Light walking, stretching, or yoga can increase blood flow and help protect your nerves.

Acupuncture: Some survivors find relief with this natural, drug-free approach.

Topical creams & patches: Lidocaine or capsaicin may help calm nerve pain.

Medications: Duloxetine is the most recommended. Others like gabapentin might also be discussed with your doctor.

Physical or occupational therapy: Therapists can guide you through exercises or suggest helpful tools to make life easier.

Home hacks: Swap your silverware for easy-grip utensils or try slip-on shoes to make daily tasks smoother.

Dr. Thayer reminds us,

“We rely on patients to help us know how we can best support them… Speak up—adjustments to your treatment or care plan might make a big difference.”

The emotional side: You’re not alone in this

Here’s something that often gets overlooked: neuropathy doesn’t just affect your hands and feet—it affects your confidence and your outlook. It’s frustrating to get through treatment only to still be dealing with pain or loss of independence. For caregivers, watching a loved one go through it can feel equally tough.

Dr. Thayer puts it into perspective:

“It’s totally unfair that the treatment for cancer—which nobody asked for—has side effects that can last months or years. But you’re not alone.”

Support groups, mental health professionals, and integrative practices like meditation and mindfulness can help ease the emotional weight. And yes, caregivers—you matter too. Check in with your loved one, but also check in with yourself.

Take this with you: Hope, help, & next steps

Neuropathy after ovarian cancer treatment is real. It’s frustrating. But it’s also manageable—and you’re never alone in facing it.

Here’s what to remember:

• Know the signs and speak up early.
• There are strategies to help you prevent or ease symptoms.
• Emotional support is just as important as physical relief—lean on your people and your care team.