Welcome @cariloo, It's great to hear that your diabetes is well controlled as I'm sure that is one of key things to keep the neuropathy from getting worse when you have diabetes. I've been in the pre-diabetes category most of my adult life and pretty much ignored the warnings until my neuropathy started progressing some and I knew I had to make some changes. I shared my neuropathy journey along with other members in another discussion here - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/member-neuoropathy-journey-stories-whats-yours/.

Since you mentioned footwear and exercises to help with your neuropathy, you might want to scan through these related discussions to learn what others have shared:
-- Socks - What helps with Neuropathy?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/socks-1/
-- Neuropathy: Anyone found comfortable footwear?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/neuropathy-35/
-- Neuropathy & Exercise: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/neuropathy-exercise/
-- FPN Webinar: Physical Exercise and Peripheral Neuropathy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TBKbUWE7N4

I think a lot of members also find water exercises helpful when you have neuropathy. Have you tried any water exercises?

Hello, @cariloo,
I've not seen anyone on Connect say that they are especially fearful of turning or changing direction (resulting in a fall), but this is exactly my greatest fear, also. It happened last month as I was putting away groceries and decided something belonged in a different place. Thanking God that it didn't result in a break or even a bruise but it sure alerted me to how readily this can happen and how serious the consequences can be.
I have experimented over the last 30 years with many remedies (hopeful) for my PN, from a menthol spray to
Class 4 red light therapy to PT, and currently am finding the most complete relief in a combination of Pregabalin, Tramadol, a recumbent bike, my wonderful chiropractor of 25 years, and an investment in a BEMER system, purchased through my physical therapist. It's too complicated to explain in a post, so better to just google it and get the facts from the manufacturer. Expensive? Yes. Works? Yes. Helps me to stay independent, living alone (with my dog!) and in control of pain, and more content than I deserve. I'm 77 and female and live in the midwest with all four seasons ~ and some in excessive ranges.
As for socks and footwear, what works best for me are the running shoes with lots of support and basically no flexibility. They keep my feet flat on the ground - you might say well grounded. I buy a full size larger than what they fit me for in the store. For me, the best socks are thin and not at all binding or tight. You didn't mention if your feet feel cold or if you live where it is cold part of the year. For indoor shoes, I love allbirds wool loungers and wool mules. No socks needed! Where I live they can only be purchased online.
I wish you all the best as you navigate the therapies that work best for you.
Barb