Peripheral neuropathies are frequent in clinical practice and portend severe functional limitations or neuropathic pain. History taking and clinical examination represent key features to trigger investigations and uncover the underlying affection. For general internal medicine practitioners, initial investigation should include search for alcohol consumption, diabetes mellitus, vitamin B12 deficiency and monoclonal gammapathy. Nerve conduction studies should be limited to patients with atypical presentations and/or without a defined etiology. After treatment of specific etiologies, supportive care includes management of neuropathic pain and physical rehabilitation.