Best shoe for neuropathy with balance issues, but no pain
I continue to look for THAT shoe that offers security. I have no pain with my neuropathy of my feet and lower legs. My issue is balance. I have three pairs of Hoka Cliftons. But I feel at times as though they restrict what feel I may have with the surface beneath me. I also have two pairs of Orthofeet, but find the toe box a bit snug. Plus, why can’t they be available in stores to try on? I have tried barefoot shoes, a couple brands, and find they cause pain on the soles and even leg cramps. Again, where can I you find these in shoe stores?
I would like to find a shoe with some flexibility of the sole for a more natural heel
to toe walk. But, I think I still need some stability. I have a high arch. I require a wide toe box, not a wide width shoe. Prior to this neuropathy diagnosis, I wore Altra and Sketchers. And, as a nurse, I wore Nike and New Balance.
Every shoe now seems to have a really thick rocker sole that adds an inch or so of height and doesn’t make me feel in control. I use a cane, but feel more in control with a walker now.
I am thinking of trying my son’s podiatrist for help with finding a shoes or inserts.
But, I would like to hear what is working for you TODAY.
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rollo8, I wear Sketchers occasionally and agree that because of the thicker soles I feel slightly off balance or not in control sometimes as you said.
I have mild diabetic neuropathy. And a bad hip! I also occasionally use a cane. Best of everything to you.
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1 ReactionI usually wear Dr Scholl's extra wide with odor eater inserts that I get at WalMart. Never looked around, but I don't think that shoes matter for me. Recent got a new shower mat that seems to accentuate my balance sensations while showering. If you see a neurologist you might confer with them too.
I have recently switched to Orthofeet and Kuru shoes. I absolutely love them. I have less knee and back pain along with Neuropathy.
They do offer a 90 day wear return policy if the shoes doesn't work for you.
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2 Reactions@bajjerfan
Would you please where you got your shower mat? I'm needing one and I looked on Amazon but didn't find any with high ratings that appealed to me.
Anyone else: Please chime in with where you have found shower mats that allow drainage while showering, and that you like.
Much appreciated!
I rely on Brooks Running shoes. They have a 90-return policy: "If you're not happy, we're not happy." And no charge for return either. Plus they have a questionaire that helps them recommend a shoe that meets the needs of the purchaser. I have three pair, and they recommend replacing shoes that get significant use be replaced ever 6 mo. One test to see if replacement is needed is to put the shoes on a level surface where you can look at the seam up the back of the heel. If that seam is no longer perpendicular to the level surface, it's time to get a new pair.
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2 Reactions@joanland
https://www.amazon.com/HITSLAM-Bathtub-Suction-Washable-Bathroom/dp/B0F5LZDLL3
It comes folded which makes it hard to get it to lay flat. Seems to drain ok tho.
I buy Zero shoes from KEEN. They look like leather tennis shoes. Come in a white and a black color. I love them. You can buy in a shoe store
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2 ReactionsHi Rollo8, I like the Brooks Adrenilin sneaker and for sandals most Abeo with metatarsal pad and high arch work. I have never found the MIRACLE shoe yet. I order from Amazon and usually end up taking the shoes back. NOW, my issue is mainly balance also. I am about to bite the bullet and buy the ACCELERA ankle device for balance. Accelera has come out with a new device called PROPRIO, longer battery device and more vibration settings. I am going to speak to my PT tomorrow if he knows anything about this device. I am in PT for cestibular therapy, which is suppose to train the brain to react to feet movement better. It has worked to a degree. Now, if anyone has any info about ACCELERAs ne ankle device for balance please let me know, I am so ready to try this. Quite costly &499.00 spoke to a rep and they are offering a $50.00 discount for summer with code SUMMER. They have a 30 day trial and can return only drawback you lose $70.00. I have had idiopathic neuropathy for 10 years now, no pain, just burning, tingling and balance which is BIGGEST complaint. I will keep you posted because I am 95% sure I will purchase this device. I have read all comments on ACCELERA 100, but did not see any writings about someone using it and having success or not. Please post any comments about this device. Thank You ALL and BEST WISHES P.S. KEEP MOVING AND NEVER GIVE UP!!
Try getting shoes from Zappos. I’m not a fan of the site just because they are now owned by Amazon, but they offer a quick free delivery and free returns. In the past year, I’ve ordered, tried on and returned more than 20 different shoes, searching for ones that would help with both pain and balance. I’ve settled on Naot, the Matai model, and sandals from Alegria. Both are expensive, but since I only have two (!) and they help, I’m ok with that. Here’s what they have in common — wide toe box, moderate but not excessive cushioning, no overly bulky exterior like Hoka, which kept making me trip and feel unsteady, a relatively low heel-to-toe drop, and adjustability to improve stability. Alegria Verona sandals have a “mini-rocker” sole which I’ve found to be just right and much better than the high rocker on other models.
With Zappos, when I found the brands/models/sizes that worked for me, I then looked on eBay and Poshmark for those combinations and was happy to find brand-new pairs for considerably less than full retail, so returned the ones I ordered from Zappos for a full refund. Good luck!