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Calling all neuropathy people: Tips on footwear and avoiding falls
I was diagnosed with neuropathy of the feet, ankles a few years ago due to diabetes 2. I have since read and heard about the importance of maintaining wound free skin as I understand that diabetics healing time etc. is longer than normal. Here is my dilemma. I am 78 yrs. old and one of my biggest pleasures is going barefoot around the house and backyard. Living in the NE, spring is always welcomed and it is almost a rite of that season, to be barefoot. Okay, that said, I also pay attention to warnings about wounds. So I was in our basement a couple of days ago and fell. My thoughts are that I have diminished feeling in the soles of my feet and wearing slippers in the house only makes it worse. I am okay. I seem to have a knack for breaking my falls so that no real damage occurs but how about foregoing slippers in my house and maybe lessening the chances of falling again. Just looking for your thoughts about this subject. Thanks in advance.
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Have you thought about or tried any of the barefoot type shoes? I have a few pairs that I wear when I'm not walking very far as they don't have any cushion but do protect the soles of your feet.
@johnbishop What are barefoot type shoes? Brands?
@mmwagner46 - Xero shoes are the ones I like but they are a little pricey. Might want to check with your doctor first. I think they might not be recommended if you have problems with your feet and you have to get used to them gradually.
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1 Reaction@johnbishop thanks
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1 ReactionI have seen them. pls. tell me where you ordered from . thanks.
@scain - These are the ones I have for around the house - https://xeroshoes.com/products/pagosa-men.
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2 ReactionsOrthofeet is a brand that was recommended to my husband by the PT after he was released from the hospital for cellulitis. Unfortunately he has had cellulitis several times and most likely all because he will go barefoot. He has complete neuropathy of his feet from type2 diabetes. His feet also get terribly swollen from CHF. He still goes barefoot and bought some cheaper version of shoe from Amazon rather than go on site to Orthofeet. Not all of their shoes are pricey. They have a good range and also links to what may work best for those with diabetes or other foot issues.
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1 Reactionthank you
thank you ...I actually have cellulitis now and have to see an infectious
disease doctor tomorrow. I am taking doxycycline and probiotics. I might
have to rethink my celebration of spring and summer ritual if going
barefoot. I just love the feeling of grass under my feet. what a shame that
the most innocent of pleasures might have to change. Is there any upside of
getting old. Not feeling very optimistic today. But thank you for sharing:).