Balance issues

I'm thinking about using the pool at my gym, but I find that the water is too cold for me. Cold water makes my muscles tense up. My neurologist has ordered an MRI to see if my back problems are causing my peripheral neuropathy. I'm 84, so we'll see what's going on and then figure out what to do!

There is a wam water therapy pool at th gym at my local community college. Big enough to swim laps in. And water aerobic classes offered in it.Maybe see what you can find locally?

Best of luck to you! A warming pool is a totally different animal but if you do not have access to one, I can see where a cold water pool would not be helpful.

Oh, that sounds like heaven. Unfortunately, I live on a small island in the middle of Puget Sound. Our athletic center has a pool, but no warming pool. There is a steam room and a sauna, though. Maybe that would work.

I’m not sure about the steam room or the sauna, but I would check with your doctor first. I hope that might be helpful for you! I know relief is a wonderful thing. I can get relief in a cold water pool, but the warming pool feels so much better!

I am also experiencing balance issues, a result of playing sports for many years, which has given me pain in my ankles. I wear ankle supports, which have helped, along with regular physical therapy sessions. They have supplied me with stretching exercises, but it's a battle that is necessary to keep going. Every day is a challenge. I just wanted to let you know that nothing ventured, nothing gained. Old Timer7

Good morning, Old Timer 7

As one old timer to another, I empathize. I ran for many years. Today, all of my lower body joints are big-time complainers. If it weren't for a combo of peripheral neuropathy and a recent sepsis infection, I'd still be doing okay. Neuropathy and sepsis have drained my once robust legs of much of their strength. I know I must do exercises specifically to strengthen my legs, but when I do … oh, boy, do those overused joints complain! Mine––and it sounds like yours, too––is a rock-&-a-hard place problem.

My very best to you!
Ray (@ray666)

Ray: Both my Doctor and my P/T suggest that I purchase a Recumbent Bike, then I could ride every day for at least ten minutes. I played softball for forty years. I retired at eighty-three years old, as they say in that movie get living or get dying , so keep on moving

Moving is the key. People are tired of hearing me cite choreographer Twyla Tharp's most inspiring book, "Keep It Moving." I keep it on the lower shelf of the little table beside my reading chair, to dip into whenever I feel lethagy coming on. I've been thinking about a recumbent bike. I haven't gotten one yet. I'm still making do with my ancient, creaky, squeaky standard stationary bike. At least it keeps me peddling. 🙂

@oldtimer7 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! We’re glad you’re here! I too, have been getting physical therapy for my legs just so I can walk better. Having an autoimmune disease really does a job on a person, but I’m trying to fight back now!