Peripheral Neuropathies and Exercise

Objectives: More than 100 peripheral neuropathies that may affect sensory, motor, and/or autonomic functions exist. This article reviews these heterogeneous conditions and presents evidence for exercises that may guide treatment and clinical practice. Data Sources: PubMed, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases. Review Methods: Truncated terms for peripheral neuropathy and exercise; peripheral neuropathy and rehabilitation, peripheral neuropathy and physical therapy, with limiters to human, peer-reviewed studies published after January 2009. Most prevalent neuropathies were searched individually using similar strategies. Articles selected included systematic reviews and quasi-experimental studies. Conclusions: More quasi-experimental designs exist than randomized trials. Evidence exists for aerobic, strengthening, and balance interventions, but future studies are needed.