I made appointment about 18 months ago, to see my podiatrist of over 34 yrs, to discuss your precise question. I became annoyed that he seemed irritated by my question. I said to him: "I have serious balance issues, especially upon getting out of bed both feet feel like they are not "touching" the floor at all, usteady gait makes it necessary to hold onto edge of bed and keep contact with hand on wall(s). Is it possible that the neuropathy in feet (with nearly numb toes) be the cause of (if not contributing factor to) my balance/gait issues?"
With a slight shoulder shrug, he gave an almost immediate response of "I can't answer that. You're in your 70's and of course your feet have lost padding. But I can't make a conclusion that the PN is behind your balance problems." His advice: "Don't ever be barefoot, and wear shoes not slippers in the house." Seriously? I most definitely DO always wear a pair of what I call my "indoor shoes" because that is what they are: Leather, seriously comfortable and supportive regular shoes that I wear anytime I am going to be standing/walking in the house. They support and protect feet/toes. OKAY! Such a non-commital response! The problems with balance and gait had gotten worse over the past 11 yrs, and only as the day progresses do the feet behave themselves a bit more. But PN pain/issues are ever-present.
He was of no help, so I left, determined that I would deal with my "feet issues" and vet other podiatrists within my area. Since that office visit, other issues/problems developed and upon researching, I've learned that YES, neuro pain and problems in your feet can impact drastically on other aspects of one's health, creating a domino effect. Made sense: off balance stance then affects your legs, knees, etc. and into your hips, spine, etc. I've tried online exercises for balance and walking, which have helped to a degree. PT for my knee (a totally other saga!) has helped, especially since one of the therapist at the center that I attend, noted my gait and proceeded to give me "lessons" for improvement. And it has helped because PT involves a series of exercises for strengthening muscle in legs/thighs (important to do exercises bilaterally, and not just with the one leg). Feels great to have stronger muscles; hoping to get back to using my home gym equipment again. But PN in feet (entire areas, including tops, bottoms, ankles, toes) has become worse due to trauma from a fall. Never a dull moment, that's for sure! So I'm looking into a consult with a topnotch neurologist as a second opinion. My insurance will cover the costs of the visit and any related testing. Have not yet decided on a podiatrist. Actually, the name that comes out as "top" is in the SAME practice as my present podiatrist, so that would be a rather awkward situation...gee gads! First step (pun intended) is to get neuro consult/eval.

I wish you better days ahead. That's the thought that I adhere to, otherwise the nasty clouds set in....