Connect
← Return to Idiopathic Progressive Polyneuropathy: How to find a specialist?
Discussion
Idiopathic Progressive Polyneuropathy: How to find a specialist?
Neuropathy | Last Active: Nov 29, 2023 | Replies (105)Comment receiving replies
I am 75 and have similar situation as you. Have had idiopathic peripheral polyneuropathy of feet and legs for 8-10 years. Fortunately, no pain. At first didn't affect my daily jogging, (45+ min) or swimming, energy or balance. . But gradually over years have had increasing problems and had to gradually decrease jogging to walking and then to walking less minutes/less often. Now down to 15 minutes usually and real problem going up or down hills. Seem to now have significant loss of muscle mass, energy, balance/coordination, feeling. At point now where even minimal physical activity brings temporary fatigue with shortness of breath. Balance, outside hot/cold temps, fatigue are now gradually decreasing some physical activities and enjoyment used to have.. Neurologist has done many tests initially to conclude is idiopathic and thus no treatment options. Blood tests and B12 tests are within acceptable ranges. So, guess increasing problems of late are just result of age----which is what many doctors often conclude with whatever maladies arise for seniors. Hope your challenges don't progress and can still be manageable.
Replies to "I am 75 and have similar situation as you. Have had idiopathic peripheral polyneuropathy of feet..."
Hi there @ccben70 I see that this is your first post. I am sorry to hear of your troubles with neuropathy. My wife has it as well although she experiences significant pain. So your symptoms sound like a weakening of your muscles, particularly leg muscles, as well as the development of general fatigue? I would encourage you to engage with others here regarding your specific issues, and compare and contrast what others are going through with your own experiences. In addition to this page we are on, there is a Neuropathy discussions page you may want to pay attention to also . The link to it is https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/neuropathy/ and from that page you will find many different subheadings (the page John mentioned is a subheading under this). It's nicely set up as the most recently posted to discussions are at the top of the page. Again, I am sorry about your condition and your inability to run/walk as much as before. It's a very frustrating illness but Mayo Connect is a great place for information and support. Best to you, Hank
Connect
Hello @ccben70, Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I'm 77 and also similar in symptoms to you. I have idiopathic small fiber peripheral neuropathy with no pain, just the numbness in my feet and around the ankles. Many of us have shared our story and what helps us in the Member Neuropathy Journey Stories: What's Yours? discussion here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/member-neuoropathy-journey-stories-whats-yours/.
I've learned to take life's little bumps one day at a time and deal with them the best I can but it can be hard some days. I used to love to walk but that's limited for me now due to lower back issues. I've been working with a physical therapist on exercises to strengthen the back and improve my posture which hopefully will help with the walking. I do have a crossfit elliptical exercise bike that I use daily for 2 to 3 thirty minute sessions so that I can help prevent more muscle mass loss and possible build a little. Balance has also become a problem for me especially when I first stand up after I've been sitting or laying down for awhile. I purchased a Sand Dune Stepper (https://www.sanddunestepper.com/) to help me work on my balance.
Have you found anything to help with your symptoms that you enjoy doing?