Living with Neuropathy - Welcome to the group

Hello, John, and thanks so much for your kind, prompt reply.
Quick answer: Yes, it is connected to arthritis and pressure fractures in lumbar spine, and in cervical spine, where I had a four/level fusion done almost 50 years ago. I consider myself very lucky to have made it this far… but the constant neuropathy (which I’ve had before, but not for such a consistent and protracted period.

Hello @alicealna I've joined but my husband is the one who has the idiopathic peripheral neuropathy. He is also in his 60s healthy and in good physical shape other than dealing with this pain which he thinks could be related to a ruptured disk in the lower lumbar however since it presents itself bilaterally the doctors don't think so. He has been getting acupuncture the past year and a half (went through several before finding the right one) and while he still gets terrible pain so far it hasn't seemed to get worst. Also takes Gabapentin and a very small dose of doxipene at night and lots of supplements.

Hi, I’m wondering if anyone has a balance problem when walking. There are lots of comments on pain etc. But I’m not sure I’ve seen anything about walking and moving around. My case is one of Polyneuropathy with hardly any pain at all. I’m retired but I can’t see how I would be able to work. I need a rolling walker to move around and even with that I get tired fast. The neurologist is sending a occupational therapist to see if I need a motorized wheelchair. Any thoughts?

A balance problem Mr. Jazzman. I guess I do have a balance problem.....I try to be stable and yet I do stagger a lot. Right now I am using a walker after a TKR. I use it or everything. I know that folks who are licensed to practice OT are often also able to re-arrange those tendons and muscles so that you walk in a balanced way.

Shoes make a huge difference. I just fell into Hoka shoes. They are the very best "balance" and walking shoes I have ever had. I chose them for stability. They do that and more. I also do Yoga daily and include a couple of standing balance poses. I think it all helps, especially when you are consistent with your efforts.

Good luck.....and may you have peace and ease. What will you try first?
Chris

Hi @sciscented I believe many people with neuropathy have developed imbalance issues. I am one. I found exercising helps. I have difficulty walking on surfaces that are not level like the lawn or gravel outside. I use a quad cane outdoors. The more walking I did on those surfaces the easier it became for me. On level surfaces I can walk without any device. I am curios why your doctor is sending an occupational therapist. They deal more with upper body verses a physical therapist who deals more with the lower part of the body or ambulatory issues. I started out using a wheelchair. Later, with the help of physical therapists, I followed their exercise program and slowly progressed to a rolling walker and eventually to the quad cane. I too got tired but took many rest periods to get the energy to be persistent. Each time I met a goal I didn’t stop there. I set new goals for myself. I eventually want to be able to walk on uneven surfaces without any device. It takes a lot of ambition. Have you been assessed by a physical therapist? Perhaps he or she can help you with exercises to meet your goals for walking. I would get an assessment first before deciding on an electric scooter. Wish you well.

Like @artscaping, I find balancing poses help me, I do Tai Chi/Qigong exercises. I also do a lot of exercises recommended for numb and painful feet, including walking backwards (safely!). I’ve found this also helps with balance. Like @avmcbellar, I firmly believe that within our specific medical/health limitations it’s important to exercise. I find mornings best, so I walk. It helps me stay fit and positive.

Hi Cathy-
I can't believe I reaad this! I have a toe on my left foot that starts to fire up in the afternoon and is like an ice pick stabbing pain. Up all night and nothing helps. Now this week I have 2 toes on my right foot doing it- I want to amputate them! FYI- I have had ideopathic bilateral neuropathy in both feet for about 10 years. I take 3300 mg gabapentin, cymbalta and klonopin ( 1 mg at night ) . Nothing helps with the toes. Luann

Have you seen a physiatrist?

You might try a vibrating foot board. It could afford relief while reading and watching TV.

Hi @davehayward1, Welcome to Connect, an online community where patients and caregivers share their experiences, find support and exchange information with others. Thanks for sharing a suggestion. Do you use one to help with neuropathy?