Ask a Nurse
posted by Dotniff
17 July 2023

Ice therapy for neuropathy

Last reply: 18 July 2023 15:50

Hello
I am in the middle of a 12 week treatment of Oxaliplatin. I have been getting Peripheral Neuropathy in my hands. It has been suggested to me by a friend who went through this to try using icepacks on my hands just before and during part of the infusion.
My nurses tell me it is not a good idea because of the Oxaliplatin/Cold response.
I know it is available in some hospitals but I am drawing complete blanks here.

1 comment

Comments

commented by Cancer Nurse
18 July 2023

18 July 2023 15:50

Hi Dotniff,

Thank you for you post on Ask a Nurse.

I am sorry to read that you are getting peripheral neuropathy in your hands from your oxaliplatin chemotherapy. This must be difficult for you dealing with the impact of peripheral neuropathy.

Ice therapy is not commonly used in Ireland to prevent chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. There are only small, limited studies on the use of this and most studies relate to people receiving a different type of chemotherapy to yours. Cold packs are sometimes given for other reasons to people who are receiving chemotherapy.

If you would like to speak with one of our cancer nurses in more detail, please contact the Support Line on 1800 200 700, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.

Kind regards,

Cancer Nurse

 

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