Anyone lost the ability to walk due to peripheral neuropathy?

@rachel44 started a discussion in the Neuropathy Support group on the same question. You might find it helpful to read what others have shared - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/periferal-neuropathy-and-loss-odbalance-and-walking-ability/

@rjack6618
Are you not able to walk due to pain or weakness/numbness?

What is the cause of your neuropathy? Do you have large fiber neuropathy making it hard to control your legs? Depending on the cause, there may be some treatments but not sure of the large nerve fibers are able to heal. Are you getting physical and occupational therapy? Do you have family/friends to help with daily tasks?

@rjack6618
Do you have any issues with circulation in your lower legs/calves? Have you had any vascular testing by a vein specialist? Do you have any cardiovascular issues or are you diabetic?

I have numbness in both legs. I do wear compression socks frequently. I have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. I’ve had X-ray of my back, an MRI OF MY NECK, a EMG on both lower legs, and a Mylogram CT. These tests were ordered by a neurosurgeon who I will be seeing this coming Friday to discuss the results of those tests. I am anxious to see what the doctor has to say about the tests and where we go from here.

I had major back surgery three years ago. I’ve had the neuropathy in my lower legs ever since the surgery. I was able to walk just fine and even play a little golf. But my legs did get tired and weak by the end of the day. And then last fall all of a sudden my legs started getting weaker and weaker to the point of literally giving out and I would fall. Then I would only be able to walk using a walker. And now I can get around the house with my walker but when we go out my wife pushes me around on a transport chair. My wife has to do everything for me. On top of my leg issues I have arthritis in both knees. So it is very scary for me to move around and I don’t do hardly anything without my wife’s assistance. I thank God for her everyday!

@rjack6618
You are blessed with a good wife!

I have cervical and lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, cervical myelopathy spinal cord compression injury, neurogenic claudication, small fiber neuropathy, etc.

My cervical myelopathy and lumbar severe stenosis/neurogenic claudication caused numbness and weakness in my legs. It is hard to walk and control movements. My feet would go totally numb when walking.

I had cervical ACDF surgery on c5-c6 in 2022 and need it done on c6-c7 this year (soon). I also had lumbar decompression and fusion surgery on l3-l5 in 2024. With both surgeries, my symptoms improved but my will most likely need future surgeries due to aging degenerative changes. I am currently in my mid 50s so have a long road ahead.

Hope you get some answers and options soon.

My husband has lost all ability to stand or walk. I've been trying to find others this has happened to so I can find if they'd regained mobility and if so what the treatment is.

Welcome @lmjjt, I'm sorry that your husband has lost his ability to stand or walk. Hoping you can connect with others who have similar issues. I have numbness and some trouble walking any distance and I also can stand very long without much difficulty. I'm thinking about getting a lightweight rollator walker but haven't decided yet. I do have a pair of trekking poles that really help me stay upright in a better walking posture which makes it easier to walk. You might find it helpful to scan through other discussions on Connect where members mention trouble walking. Here's a search link that lists the discussions and member comments - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/?search=trouble+walking.

Has your husband been diagnosed with a specific type of neuropathy?

Is your husband in pain? I'm almost a non walker, wheelchair most the time, but in small places a walker, but I cannot go very far with the walker. They tell me it will pass, but I think .... It would be nice to get rid of the pain. @wenner

I have had neuropathy for many years now. My pain increased so much in the past year that I am not able to walk anymore at all. I can’t even stand up. This can be a result of this disease. It just depends and varies with each individual. I know a few people who are now unable to walk. I never thought I would get this bad. But am pretty much bedridden now. I hope your husband has better luck.