Protection from injury to an extremity with reduced sensation is important. This may include checking the temperature of bath water to prevent burns , change in footwear, frequent inspection of shoes to reduce injury caused by pressure or objects in the shoes, or other measures. Extremities should be guarded to prevent injury from pressure. Use of alcohol should be stopped to reduce progression of the damage. Damage to nerves from alcoholic neuropathy is usually permanent and may be progressive if use of alcohol is not stopped.
Symptoms vary from mild discomfort to severe disability.
The disorder is usually not life threatening, but may severely compromise the quality of life.