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Insoles for increased sensation?
Been having decreased sensation in feet, hands. No pain. Recent EMG of legs, feet showed some sensory neuropathy. Waiting for neurology appointment. Looking for shoe insoles that may provide some stimulation, increase sensation, etc ., Mainly for purpose of maximum stimulation/sensation driving(usually when driving longer distances, longer downhills…)I have tried Naboso neuro insoles- minimal , if any, effect. Any suggestions?
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Walking on pine straw helps me. Haven't tried using it for an insole. I Might put a mat of it on the floorboard and turn on the cruise.
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1 ReactionGreat question, and I'm sure I'm saying that because I had the same idea.
Unfortunately, most of the insoles I looked into say specifically not to use them if you have peripheral neuropathy. I ordered a pair anyway, walked around the house for a few minutes, and returned them. Made it worse instead of better.
Having said that, you may have a different experience.
I do wear barefoot shoes, which give me more feel for the ground and make me more stable. If you search the Mayo blogs for that term, you'll find more feedback. Some people like them, some people hate them. They absolutely take some getting used to, and in my experience, I needed to order a larger size than I expected to keep my toes from bumping into the front of the shoe.
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1 ReactionThank you for that. I will likely at least try the barefoot shoes. Willing to try just about anything, while trying not to break the bank. I am not diabetic, no lower back/spine problems that I am aware of. To be continued.
@projfan
I also wear/like barefoot shoes but my podiatrist says they provide no structural support. Yes, I found that you need to buy a size larger than usual. Haven't tried the above-mentioned innersoles but have used soft/thicker ones in left shoes only. My left foot sometimes swells a bit in hot weather & my right foot has atrophied somewhat. I seem to be able to wear my barefoot shoes for longer periods than any others, even house slippers. Otherwise, I am changing shoes frequently.
@kvn8
If trying to save a bit, try ordering from Temu, they are cheaper, made in China but so are most others. I have 2 pairs & am very satisfied with them.
@auntieqd I think there are two camps here: the medical professionals who are all-in on support, and those who are all-in on strengthening the small muscles in your feet by making your muscles do the work without support. I suspect the best answer varies. As you do, I tend to switch them up.
I will say that for other reasons (knee arthritis), I worked with a PT several years ago on improving my gait. He was definitely in the second camp. The gait improvement bought me years of reduction in the pain. Basically, I had a bit of spinal scoliosis, not enough to worry about, but enough to affect how I was standing and walking. It took almost a year (those are tough habits to change), but boy, did it make a difference.