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DiscussionHow do you manage neuropathy and loss of balance and walking ability?
Neuropathy | Last Active: 8 hours ago | Replies (245)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "@magrose45 thank you for this post. I am interested in exercise for balance. Thanks for any..."
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@chelsea2357 I went to PT specifically for exercises for balance, now have a Home Program that I do 3xwk, takes about 45 minutes and walk daily for 30 min.
Best advice I can give is to do everything you can think of to make your home safe for you- remove all throw rugs, use bathroom rugs with rubber backing, have grab bars installed (vertical at entrance to tub, horizontal on far wall), wear non-skid socks or “indoor” shoes, install rails on any stairs, keep one hand free if carrying anything room to room.
Outside- I am VERY careful- when walking, watch the sidewalk for any uneven slabs and carefully navigate them, watch out for wet leaves, walk up driveway cuts, rather than stepping up and over curbs. I have a mild foot-drop with the neuropathy, when walking I remind myself to lift my toes on each step. It’s not the carefree walking I enjoyed for decades, but I haven’t had any more falls. If I encounter steps without a rail, I just wait for someone to come along and ask if I could put a hand on their arm or shoulder, people don’t mind.
After my last very hard fall outside, my brother insisted I get a smart watch. It registers a fall, the dial lights up and asks if you need help, tap yes and it dials the number you’ve entered (for me- my brother, who is local), if no answer, it dials 911, you can talk to them through the watch. If you can’t talk, it gives a message help is needed and your GPS coordinates.
My neuropathy is pretty stable, but I can feel that my balance is better with the exercises and strengthening of my leg muscles. I feel much more safe with the smart watch. I had a bad fall in a grocery store parking lot, it was embarrassing, lots of people gathered to help (and look). But, I’m much more careful now with all mobility. Wish it weren’t necessary, but better that than a broken hip.