The cause should be identified and treated whenever possible. This may include control of blood-sugar levels for diabetics, abstinence from alcohol, nutritional supplements, surgical decompression or other surgical treatments, or medical treatment of conditions. Physical therapy, vocational therapy, occupational therapy, and orthopedic interventions may be recommended to promote self care ability and independence. For example, exercises and retraining may be used to increase muscle strength and control. Appliances such as wheelchairs, braces, and splints may improve mobility or ability to use an affected extremity.
Safety is an important consideration for people with neuropathy.
Lack of muscle control or decreased sensation increase the risk of falls or other injury. The person may be unable to perceive a potential source of injury because of decreased sensation. Safety measures for people having difficulty with sensation include awareness of the lack of sensation and compensation through other measures. Shoes should be checked often for grit or rough spots that may cause injury to the feet. They should avoid prolonged pressure on these areas from leaning on the elbows, crossing the knees, or similar positions.