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The prognosis for patients with peripheral neuropathy ranges from very promising where the neuropathy resolves completely (for example if it was caused by a medication or by another medical condition that was treated properly and resolved) to less promising or more severe cases where the pain and other symptoms do not respond to treatment and persist for many years. Various medications, such as over the counter pain relievers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, lidocaine patches, and others are available to relieve pain and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy but they do not work for everyone. Peripheral neuropathy symptoms, particularly the pain, dysesthesia, and muscle weakness, cause a significant impact on patients' quality of life.

The progression of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy is highly variable depending on the etiology of the neuropathy as well as on individual variation. Most types of peripheral neuropathy progress slowly over time. Idiopathic peripheral neuropathy may progress or may remain at the level where it was first diagnosed. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is progressive but careful glucose control is usually effective in managing the symptoms and slowing progression.

Physical and occupational therapy are valuable tools for maintaining limb mobility and daily living activities. Lifestyle modifications may be needed to accommodate new symptoms as they develop. Some patients may benefit from psychological counseling. Although peripheral neuropathy may cause intense discomfort and interference with quality of life, it typically does not cause serious ongoing disability and is not a life threatening condition (except for Guillain-Barre syndrome).