Connect
← Return to Unbearable Neuropathy
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
I would like to talk more about this issue to better understand why and hows of it all. I'm a 67yo who now uses a cane and in pain and swelling, I don't understand this. I have to change my lifestyle. I feel like I've aged ten years and I look like that. Everyday is a challenge. I'm under a doctor's care. I use a cane because I have to. If anyone else knows what I'm saying please let me know. Thanks for your support.
Replies to "I would like to talk more about this issue to better understand why and hows of..."
I'd like to add my welcome, @leer67. I hope you'll also add your picture to your profile.
I think you might also be interested in this related discussion:
- Unbearable Neuropathy: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/unbearable-neuropathy/
Can you share a bit more? What are you changing in your lifestyle? Are you changing things to improve your health? Or are you referring to how the changes to your mobility are necessitating lifestyle changes? Or both?
I understand! I've always had back problems, but remained active. But I fell down the stairs from the second floor, had back surgery, then fell flat on my back 5 months after the surgery. Never out of pain. Can't stand up straight. Even the cane doesn't get me very far. I can do some grocery shopping because I use the cart for support. It's the right height to enable me to straighten up and hold onto it. I have found that the more I make myself endure the pain I'm building some strength. Not easy and very discouraging. Of course it has completely changed my life and not for the better. I need to have another surgery but the recovery takes at least 18 months. What if I fall again before it heals? It's scary. Having to use a cane makes a person feel useless and old. Like you, I have a pain mgmt doctor.
I think the best thing for me is to get involved in a senior citizen group. They play cards, games and more activities. Right now , don't have the energy or interest. My youngest daughter and I lived together about 3 hours away from my other children.
But she was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma brain tumor in December and passed away on April 6th 2023. I'm still reeling from the shock and grief. Now the neuropathy is starting . My husband was diabetic and he suffered unbearably with it.
So it does frighten me. I do have an appointment scheduled with a neurologist for November. Hopefully he can help slow it down.
I know that I'm rambling, but know that I emphasize with you and that you are not alone.
Connect
@leer67 sounds like you have decided to “wear my shoes”.
I understand those thoughts and the feelings you expressed. I would guess that many of us on here can relate.
Ten years ago when I was 64, I was 50 pounds slimmer, had a personal trainer at the gym, and felt marvelous.
Now, as you alluded to, our lives have changed and we don’t want to be that old sick person in the mirror.
Things happen. Good, bad, or indifferent, things happen to all of us as time goes on. I’m stuck with a cane and a walker. However I survived a very rare autoimmune disease a few years ago. I still suffer from fibromyalgia, occipital neuralgia, osteoarthritis, polyneuropathy, and Vasculitis.
What can we do about this new us, and how it makes us feel? We are allowed to mourn our former selves. However, we can’t get stuck there.
We can think about all the good things that remain steady in our lives I guess.
Wishing you a happy weekend!