How do you manage neuropathy and loss of balance and walking ability?

I also am seeing a Physical Therapist, and it is definitely helping my balance. I have learned a series of exercises that I can do at home daily. They seem very simple, but their effect is quite noticeable. I return every few weeks for a check and progress report. I had almost given up that I would be able to feel secure on my feet.

I have little feeling left in feet and ankles and have used a cane for a few years—not to carry weight. While I cannot drive, with a good cane I can stand and walk around a bit. I actually bought a custom cane and have much more confidence now..

@raebaby There are many by the Super Patch Company. Which one did you get? thanks

@katdens I find going to the gym 5 days a week & concentrating on strengthening my core, legs and hips,
Have helped with my balance, I found if I keep moving some that also helps keep me upright. I have been clised to falling but by the strength I’ve gained by going to gym has made it so I’ve been able to recover. Since starting my gym routine three years ago I have not fell down in over a year.

I buy th Librty

@frankmoore
I'm 78, 6 months ago I was diagnosed with PN.
Every day I'm walking 4 km and swimming for about 39 minutes. Cut down on sugar and no alcohol. Take only Mecogabalin 500mg once a day. I went back on playing golf and trying to eat a little. Drink more. So far it got a little better and I can sleep now. Keep on moving as much as you can... Good luck.

@katdens I completely understand I have a walker for when I leave the house. I really only leave to go grocery shopping with my husband. Only leave with husband he worries and with good reason. I do get out with friends I just walk slowly and with my walker it has helped me a lot. I am 58 stage 4 breast cancer de novo, diagnosed January 2020. I can’t believe some days I am still here. My doctors say it’s because of my attitude. I try to be positive. I tell them all the time how I can’t leave my babies they ask how old and I say oh they are in their 30’s now Still my babies and my husband I love that man he needs me I can’t leave him so I stay positive and healthy as I can. Even with this crappy neuropathy

3740 David Dirkse

Does anyone else have PARKINSON & CIPN? CIPN four years. PARKINSON for One year. Pain 24/7. Really terrible Balance. Hands NO fine motor skills.
Feet VERY SENSITIVE. Looking for Suggestions. STILL after surviving Prostate Cancer AND Stage 4 Lung Cancer …… ALL GONE. I’m VERY GRATEFUL (for my life) & HOPEFUL for the Future!! Suggestions?

Managing neuropathy and problems with balance or walking starts with finding the underlying cause and getting the right treatment. I would recommend working with a healthcare professional, doing physical therapy to improve strength and balance, and using a cane or walker if needed to prevent falls. Wearing supportive shoes, keeping walkways clear, and having good lighting at home can also make walking safer. Depending on the cause, medications and certain vitamins may help, but supplements should only be used with medical advice. If walking ability is getting worse, it is important.

Hello Kelly @crze14u2, Welcome to Connect. I'm with you on staying positive with the neuropathy. It doesn't cost anything and it makes you focus on what's important in your life. I'm guessing that the breast cancer treatment is what brought on the neuropathy and wondering if you might want to connect with others to learn what they have shared. I did a search of Connect for "chemo induced neuropathy what helps" and thought I would share the related discussions and member comments - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/discussions/.