Hello the Group:

Although my hands have been numb and tingling progressively for a year or two, with needle-like sensations going up my arms and sometimes to the shoulders, it was only in the last 2 weeks that my neurologist was able to definitively diagnose this as idiopathic polyneuropathy. And tell me that there was nothing he could do to help me.

I've read quite a few posts here and am looking for guidance. Importantly, I'm not in pain, though feel terrible for those who are.

All of my blood tests came back normal. I'm not diabetic, I don't seem to have a vitamin deficiency, and I don't drink alcohol. I did have cancer a few years back and was treated with radiation but not chemo. I also have Raynaud's Phenomenon; this causes pain, but compared to the continual feeling of slight pins and needles, and the clumsy fingers that make it hard to do small motions like button buttons, turn pages, operate a remote control etc., it's of much lesser concern.

I'm looking for any and all guidance from knowledgeable folks. For instance, I'm wondering if I should try acupuncture; and I've heard something about L-Carnitine as well (and have read some threads about it). It's difficult to get my head around the idea that I'll always feel this way. Since the doctor can't pinpoint a cause, he's unable to tell me whether or not I should ever expect this to abate on its own. He did mention that it could get worse and begin to affect my feet and lower legs. I have a slight sensation down there... but it's difficult to be sure if it's actual neuropathy or the Raynaud's acting up. (Raynaud's is a circulatory condition that reacts to cold)

Thank you all for your time and kind attention.

Balanchine