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Just Diagnosed with Small Fiber Neuropathy
Neuropathy | Last Active: Aug 12 10:26am | Replies (236)Comment receiving replies
It seems most people with SFN talk about pain. I've never had pain. My symptoms are tingling and such tightness in the foot arch and the outside ankle that my balance is compromised and I don't feel my feet properly to walk. It is like trying to walk while your feet are asleep. The tingling is overwhelming and can travel up the legs. Currently I have assistance walking and cannot drive. Is this the same for anyone else and what is your treatment? Thank you.
Replies to "It seems most people with SFN talk about pain. I've never had pain. My symptoms are..."
...how long ago did you detect symptoms?
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Hello @retired123, Welcome to Connect, an online community where patients and caregivers share their experiences, find support and exchange information with others. I have idiopathic small fiber peripheral neuropathy with only numbness and some tingling but no pain. I also have to wear compression socks which makes the tingling a little worse but so far at 78 I can still drive and walk but not very far. My walking problem is more to do with my lower back and having what I think is bent spine syndrome (BSS) which makes it difficult to stand up straight when walking and I tend to lean forward. I shared my story and what has helped me in the Member Neuropathy Journey discussion here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/310341/
There is another discussion which you might find helpful - Neuropathy: Numbness only, no pain: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/neuropathy-numbness-only-no-pain/
Awhile back I saw a new device for people with diabetic neuropathy that helped them walk. The researchers came and talked to us at one of our Minnesota Neuropathy Association meetings before they had FDA approval and it was still under development - https://rxfunction.com/. It sounds like it could help a lot of people with symptoms similar to yours.
What type of walking assistance do you currently use?
https://youtu.be/J2OZczG_72E